Which of the following materials exhibits the greatest electrical conductivity?
Solution
Correct Answer: Option B
- Among the materials listed—Silver, Copper, Aluminum, and Gold—silver actually possesses the highest electrical conductivity due to its atomic structure and electron mobility.
- However, in practical and medical device applications, copper is most commonly used because it offers an excellent balance of conductivity, cost-effectiveness, and durability.
- While silver has the greatest conductivity, it is significantly more expensive and less practical for widespread use.
- Copper's conductivity is only marginally lower than silver's, but it is much more abundant and affordable, making it the preferred choice in most medical and electrical applications.
- Moreover, copper is less prone to oxidation than aluminum, maintaining good conductivity over time, and it is more conductive than gold, which is often used for its resistance to corrosion rather than conductivity.
- Therefore, copper exhibits the greatest effective or practical electrical conductivity in real-world applications.
Key Points:
- Silver has the highest theoretical electrical conductivity.
- Copper is preferred in practical applications due to its cost-effectiveness and durability.
- Aluminum and gold have lower electrical conductivity than copper.
- Copper balances performance with affordability, making it the best overall choice.
Reference: Electrical Properties of Materials, Volume 2, Chapter 5 / Page 123