Periodic table / Copper

Overview

Copper is a chemical element with symbol Cu (from Latin:cuprum) and atomic number 29. It is a soft, malleable and ductile metal with very high thermal and electrical conductivity. A freshly exposed surface of pure copper has a reddish-orange color.

Electron configuration

The electron configuration of Copper is [Ar] 3d10 4s1, with electron shells of 2, 8, 18, 1.

Physical and chemical properties

Copper is classified as a transition metal. It has an atomic mass of 63.546 and exists as a solid at standard conditions, appearing as red-orange metallic luster.

Real-world uses of Copper

As a transition metal, Copper is typically used in alloys, industrial manufacturing, electronics, or as a catalyst in chemical reactions.

Interesting facts about Copper

• Copper has the atomic number 29 and chemical symbol Cu.
• It belongs to period 4, group 11 of the periodic table.
• Copper was discovered by Middle East.

Explore Copper interactively

Want to compare Copper with other elements or see it highlighted on the full table? Open the interactive periodic table and click on Cu to explore properties, trends, and neighboring elements. You can also test your knowledge with our periodic table quiz game.