2. Research your metal and discuss, in your own words, the following:

• What are some interesting physical and chemical properties of your metal? Choose a few to

highlight in your introduction.

•

What are the common ions that your metal forms? Write the chemical symbol (xcharge) for the

most common ion (or two) and indicate the numbers of protons, neutrons, and electrons in

each ion.

• What are the common isotopes of your metal? Which are the most prevalent? Perform the

average atomic weight calculation based on the isotopes and their percent abundances. Be sure

to explain your steps.

• Thermal and Electrical conductivity (What are these? How are they measured?)

1. Read this article, (Electrical Conductivity), and respond based on the information

provided. Can you determine the mathematical relationship between conductivity and

resistivity?

2. Here is the Thermal Conductivity starting point: Thermal Conductivity (This links to

Wikipedia-not necessarily a reputable site-BUT a fine place to get started and to look

for references. When using Wikipedia, always scroll to the bottom to the references list

to confirm the information.)

Corrosivity (What is it? How is it measured? How does your metal corrode? How susceptible to

corrosion is your metal?)

Write the balanced reaction for the oxidation of your metal (reaction with O2)

How reactive is your metal compared to the other metals? (All choices are Pb, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Al)

Is your metal commonly alloyed with any other metals? Which ones and why? How does

•

creating an alloy "improve" your metal? (Strength, elasticity, corrosion resistance, etc)

• What engineering applications commonly use this metal?

•

Can you identify where in your home you find this metal in use? (Include a photo of your metal

"in action"!)