Copper (Cu): Properties, Uses and Facts in 3D
Copper is element 29 on the periodic table, a transition metal. At room temperature it is a solid. Open it in the 3D Periodic Table to spin its tile, see its electron shells and read its story.
Explore in 3DCopper quick facts
| Atomic number | 29 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Cu |
| Atomic mass | 63.546 |
| Category | Transition Metal |
| Group and period | Group 11, period 4 |
| Block | d-block |
| State at room temperature | Solid |
| Electron configuration | [Ar] 3d¹⁰ 4s¹ |
| Electrons per shell | 2, 8, 18, 1 |
| Discovered | Ancient times |
What is copper used for?
- Electrical wiring & conductors
- Plumbing pipes & fittings
- Antimicrobial hospital surfaces
Interesting facts about copper
- Copper has been used by humans for over 10,000 years. One of the first worked metals
- Copper is naturally antimicrobial. It kills 99.9% of many bacteria within 2 hours
- The Statue of Liberty is made of copper. Its green colour is patina, mostly copper sulfate minerals
Copper has been known since ancient times, long before anyone could call it an element.
Where copper sits on the periodic table
Copper is in group 11, period 4. Tap any element to open its page.
Other transition metals
Copper questions
What is the atomic number of copper?
Copper has atomic number 29, so every copper atom has 29 protons in its nucleus. Its symbol is Cu and its atomic mass is 63.546.
Is copper a metal?
Copper is a metal. On the periodic table it is grouped as a transition metal, found in group 11, period 4.
What is the electron configuration of copper?
The electron configuration of copper is [Ar] 3d¹⁰ 4s¹. Its electrons sit in 4 shells: 2, 8, 18, 1.
What is copper used for?
Copper is used for electrical wiring & conductors, plumbing pipes & fittings and antimicrobial hospital surfaces.
Who discovered copper?
Copper has been known since ancient times, long before anyone could call it an element.
The 3D Periodic Table is made by Julian Neagu, a solo founder in London, as part of VisionVix Simulators. It is free to use in the browser on desktop and phone, with no sign-up.