Copper (Cu)
Transition metal · d-block · period 4 · group 11
Reddish-orange metal; weathers to a green patina.
Copper (symbol Cu) is chemical element number 29, a transition metal in group 11, period 4 of the periodic table. Its standard atomic weight is 63.546 and its electron configuration is [Ar] 3d10 4s1. At room temperature it is a solid. One of the first metals ever worked by humans, over 10,000 years ago.
Properties
| Atomic number | 29 |
|---|---|
| Atomic mass | 63.546 |
| Category | Transition metal |
| Block | d-block |
| Group · Period | 11 · 4 |
| Electron configuration | [Ar] 3d10 4s1 |
| Electrons per shell | 2, 8, 18, 1 |
| State at 25 °C | solid |
| Melting point | 1357.77 K |
| Boiling point | 2835 K |
| Density | 8.96 g/cm³ |
| Electronegativity (Pauling) | 1.9 |
| Radioactive | No |
| Origin | primordial |
| Discovered | Known since antiquity · Known since antiquity |
Key facts about Copper
- One of the first metals ever worked by humans, over 10,000 years ago.
- Second only to silver as an electrical conductor, but far cheaper.
- Bronze (copper + tin) and brass (copper + zinc) are its ancient alloys.
- Copper surfaces kill bacteria on contact — useful for hospital door handles.
What Copper is used for
Electrical wiring, plumbing, motors, coins, roofing, brass and bronze, antimicrobial surfaces.
Where it sits in the periodic table
Copper is in group 11, period 4, of the d-block. Its electron configuration [Ar] 3d10 4s1 means its outermost shell holds 1 electron, which is what places it here and explains much of its chemistry. See Copper on the interactive table →
Copper — frequently asked questions
What is Copper used for?
Electrical wiring, plumbing, motors, coins, roofing, brass and bronze, antimicrobial surfaces.
Is Copper radioactive?
No. Copper has at least one stable isotope and is not radioactive.
What is the electron configuration of Copper?
Copper has the electron configuration [Ar] 3d10 4s1, which is 2, 8, 18, 1 electrons per shell.
What group and period is Copper in?
Copper is in group 11, period 4, in the d-block. Its outer shell holds 1 electron.
Who discovered Copper?
Copper has been known since ancient times.