There are many reasons why gold is a very desirable commodity. That has not changed for millennia. This precious metal is available in limited quantities and is known worldwide. It used to be a symbol of prestige and wealth. Nowadays, investors are racing to have this asset in their portfolios. Why is that so? Find out on this web source.
No other element can compare to gold. Although there are other precious metals, this shiny element is attractive and desirable, not only as an investment vehicle or a symbol of luxury. It also has a broad use in the industry due to its impressive physical and chemical properties.
Besides versatility, gold is one of the few elements found in its native state. It’s noble for various good reasons, as it has many purposes and benefits. On top of everything, this precious metal has a significant historical value, as it was a haven during times of crisis.
Heat and Electricity Conductivity
Another beneficial property of gold is its high conductivity. This metal can transfer electric current through a gap of about 50 volts. That places this element right after silver and copper. Besides, this shiny element has a very high melting point.
This metal is easily divisible and easy to process. But, it’s susceptible to brittleness. As a result, it must be heated to a certain temperature before usage. But the melting point is 1063 degrees Celsius, meaning this element can stand high processing heat.
Malleability
Another property of this element is its malleability. Its place in the system of periodic elements is between mercury and platinum. For this reason, this precious metal is considered a transitional element. That makes it soft and very durable at the same time. It can be easily forged and shaped, even within alloys.
Malleability is a significant factor contributing to the high demand for this precious metal. It makes it the perfect material for jewellery making, as it is both flexible and durable. Yet, it’s very soft and can scratch easily in pure form. It’s therefore unsuitable for processing into durable items. Because of this, it is often alloyed with other metals.
The purpose of alloying is to enhance the properties of gold. It becomes stronger, thicker, and more flexible. After alloying, machines can turn this precious metal into wires, plates, many other industrial components, and investment products.
High Specific Gravity
The specific gravity of gold is large and is often disproportionate to its dimensions. It’s a designation that refers to the density of this metal. It can’t be easily copied because no other element has specific gravity as gold.
One cubic centimetre of this metal weighs 19 grams. If you take it in your hand, you will notice it’s quite heavy. So pay particular attention to this feature when you buy gold, especially investment forms like bars and coins.
Have you ever wondered is solid gold magnetic and how that fact can benefit you? Knowing that this element has no magnetic features can help you detect fake items. If a piece of jewellery, coin, or bar sticks to a magnet when it gets close, it means that they are false.
Resistant to Chemicals
Gold is an inert metal because it shows no reaction with air, water, or other substances. As a result, it’s very corrosion-resistant in optimal conditions. That makes it a perfect material for electrical wires and more delicate items like wedding bands and other jewellery pieces. It’s also suitable for electronic components, as it doesn’t react with acid.
Gold doesn’t react with acids and alkalis. Only a few chemicals can dissolve this precious metal. For example, it dissolves in ‘royal water’ (a mix of concentrated nitric and hydrochloric acid) and potassium solution. Gold can also be liquefied with alkaline cyanide solutions and mercury. This reaction happens during alloying this precious metal.
No Tarnishing
One of the most intriguing properties of gold is its ability to not tarnish when other elements are around. It’s highly conductive and stable, meaning it doesn’t react with any other metal. Even if you leave it exposed to elements for a long time, it won’t change its colour or properties.
But that doesn’t make this precious element unbreakable. So if you own gold, do your best to keep its lustre. For example, never store it along with silver or platinum. Also, don’t use bleachers or household cleaning products on it. As long as it’s in its original condition, this asset has a high value.
Versatile Usage
Gold’s physical and chemical properties make it an ideal material for many purposes. For example, it’s a popular choice for computer chips and other electrical components due to heat and corrosion resistance. The high conductivity and low density make this element an excellent choice for insulating cables, switches, and connectors.
Gold is one of the most durable materials and can be shaped into various forms. Machines can process it into thin sheets and strings, almost like cobwebs. That makes it suitable for the cosmetics and fashion industry, not to mention jewellery making. Visit this link to find out where you can find this metal for recycling.
Gold is a truly miraculous element if you look at it outside of jewellery and investment asset. It has a wide usage, which results in great demand. You can make the most of this by investing in this precious metal.
