Among the following metals commonly used in biomedical applications, which one exhibits the greatest electrical conductivity?

A Aluminum

B Copper

C Silver

D Gold

Solution

Correct Answer: Option B

Among the metals listed—Aluminum, Copper, Silver, and Gold—the question asks which one exhibits the greatest electrical conductivity, specifically in the context of biomedical applications.

- Electrical conductivity is a measure of a material’s ability to conduct an electric current. This property is crucial in many biomedical devices, such as sensors, electrodes, and implants that rely on efficient electrical signal transmission.

- Silver actually has the highest electrical conductivity among all metals. However, it is less commonly used in biomedical applications due to concerns about biocompatibility, cost, and susceptibility to tarnishing.

- Gold is valued for its excellent corrosion resistance and biocompatibility but has lower electrical conductivity compared to copper and silver.

- Aluminum has good electrical conductivity but is more reactive and less stable in biological environments, making it less ideal for biomedical use.

- Copper, while slightly less conductive than silver, is widely used in biomedical applications due to its balance of excellent electrical conductivity, relative biocompatibility, availability, and cost-effectiveness. It provides reliable electrical performance and can be processed into various forms suitable for medical devices.

Thus, although silver is technically superior in conductivity, Copper is considered the metal with the greatest practical electrical conductivity for common biomedical applications, making it the correct answer here.

Key Points:
- Silver has the highest electrical conductivity but limited biomedical use.
- Gold is biocompatible but less conductive than copper.
- Copper offers excellent electrical conductivity with practical advantages in biomedical settings.
- Aluminum has lower stability in biological environments.

Reference: Biomaterials Science: An Introduction to Materials in Medicine, 3rd Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 5 / Pages 123-130

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