Explain why copper is used for electrical wiring and aluminium is used to make aircraft bodies. Give one reason for each metal.

Cambridge International IGCSE Chemistry (0620) — 9.2 Uses of metals · Explain · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Model answer (4 marks)

Copper is a good conductor of electricity, so electrical current can pass through the wire with minimal energy loss.
Aluminium has a low density, making the aircraft lighter and improving fuel efficiency.

Examiner tips

Use the exact terms ‘good conductor’ and ‘low density’ as the mark scheme expects.
Show the link between conductivity and energy loss for copper, and between density and fuel efficiency for aluminium.
Keep each point short and to the point to fit the 4‑mark limit.

Common mistakes

Using vague phrases such as ‘high conductivity’ instead of ‘good conductor’. Mentioning unrelated properties like ‘colour’ or ‘corrosion resistance’. Failing to connect the property to the practical benefit (e.g., not stating that low density reduces fuel use).

Mark scheme (4 marks)

Copper is a good conductor of electricity
This allows electrical current to pass through the wire with minimal energy loss / efficiently
Aluminium has a low density
This makes the aircraft lighter, so less fuel is needed / improves fuel efficiency

Key terms in this question

electrical wiring · aluminium · copper