How to distinguish silver from aluminum
In daily life, silver and aluminum are two common metals, but due to their similar appearance, many people are easily confused. This article will introduce in detail the differences between silver and aluminum in terms of physical properties, chemical properties, uses, etc., and attach a structured data comparison table to help you quickly distinguish between the two metals.
1. Comparison of physical properties
| Properties | Silver (Ag) | Aluminum (Al) |
|---|---|---|
| color | Bright white, strong gloss | Silvery white, softer luster |
| Density | 10.49 g/cm³ | 2.70 g/cm³ |
| melting point | 961.8°C | 660.3°C |
| Hardness | Soft (Mohs hardness 2.5-3) | Harder (Mohs hardness 2.75) |
| conductivity | The most conductive of all metals | Good electrical conductivity, but inferior to silver |
2. Comparison of chemical properties
| Properties | Silver (Ag) | Aluminum (Al) |
|---|---|---|
| Corrosion resistance | Easily reacts with sulfides to turn black | The surface easily forms an oxide film and is corrosion-resistant. |
| Reactivity | More stable, not easy to react with acid | Lively, easily reacts with acid and alkali |
| Oxidizing | Oxidation rate is slow | Oxidation rate is fast, forming aluminum oxide |
3. Comparison of common uses
| Purpose | Silver (Ag) | Aluminum (Al) |
|---|---|---|
| jewelry | Commonly used in high-end jewelry | Less commonly used in jewelry |
| Industry | Electronics, photography, medical equipment | Aerospace, packaging, construction |
| Daily necessities | tableware, currency | Cans, doors and windows |
4. How to quickly distinguish silver and aluminum
1.weight test: The density of silver is much higher than that of aluminum, and the same volume of silver is about 4 times heavier than aluminum.
2.Magnetic test: Aluminum is weakly magnetic, while silver is not magnetic at all.
3.Oxidation test: Silver will gradually turn black when exposed to air, while aluminum will form a white oxide film.
4.sound test: When struck, the sound of silver products is crisp and clear, while the sound of aluminum products is dull.
5.chemical test: Using nitric acid test, silver will react to form a white precipitate, aluminum will react violently and produce bubbles.
5. Market value comparison
| Properties | Silver (Ag) | Aluminum (Al) |
|---|---|---|
| market price | Higher, it is a precious metal | Lower, belongs to industrial metal |
| investment value | Has a value-preserving function | Mainly used for industrial purposes |
6. Environmental protection and recycling
Silver and aluminum are both recyclable metals, but have different recycling values. Silver has a high recycling value and is often used in jewelry and electronic scrap recycling; aluminum has a high recycling rate and is widely used in the packaging and construction industries.
Through the above comparison, I believe you have mastered the method of distinguishing silver and aluminum. There are obvious differences between these two metals in terms of physical properties, chemical properties, uses and values. Next time you encounter similar metals, give these methods a try!
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