Copper
From Envirowiki
copper is a common metal found in the earth's lithosphere. mined and used for numerous things by humans.
Contents |
[edit] 1 uses
copper's most common uses include water piping, due to the fact that it doesn't rust much, and electrical components and wiring, due to its excellent conductivity.
[edit] 2 problems with copper
[edit] 2.1 copper mining
copper mining can probably be done fairly cleanly and safely, but it usually isn't, because that would reduce the profit margin of mining companies. As such a number of problems can arise, including safety of mine workers, chemical contamination of waterways and soils with toxins used in mine processes, including a number of dangerous cyanides, and carbon emissions from the burning of fossil fuels during the mining and production processes (trucks and machinery).
[edit] 2.2 toxicity
copper itself toxic
copper sulfate (CuSO4), a salt product of chemical reactions between sulfuric acid and copper compounds such as copper oxide, is even more toxic, and 30g will probably kill an adult human.
