Copper (Cu)
Copper (Cu, element 29) is a transition metal in group 11, period 4. Atomic mass 63.546, electron configuration [Ar] 3d¹⁰ 4s¹, uses and facts.
About Copper
Copper is a transition metal with the symbol Cu and atomic number 29. It is a solid at room temperature, and it sits in group 11, period 4 of the periodic table. Copper has been known since antiquity.
Copper key facts
- Atomic number: 29
- Symbol: Cu
- Atomic mass: 63.546 u
- Category: transition metal
- Group: 11
- Period: 4
- State at room temperature: solid
- Electron configuration: [Ar] 3d¹⁰ 4s¹
- Electronegativity (Pauling): 1.9
- Melting point: 1357.77 K (1084.62 °C)
- Boiling point: 2835 K (2561.85 °C)
- Density: 8.96 g/cm³
- Common oxidation states: 0, +1, +2, +3, +4
Electron configuration
The electron configuration of copper is [Ar] 3d¹⁰ 4s¹. The part in brackets is the noble gas core; the rest shows how the outer electrons fill their subshells.
Uses of copper
- Electrical wiring
- Plumbing
- Currency
Did you know?
Copper kills bacteria on contact. Ancient Egyptians used copper vessels to keep water clean.
Other elements in group 11 and neighbours
Frequently asked questions
What is the atomic number of copper?
The atomic number of copper is 29, which means every copper atom has 29 protons.
What is the electron configuration of copper?
The electron configuration of copper is [Ar] 3d¹⁰ 4s¹.
What group and period is copper in?
Copper is a transition metal in group 11, period 4.
What state is copper at room temperature?
Copper is a solid at room temperature.
What is copper used for?
Copper is used for electrical wiring, plumbing, currency.