Which of the following elements has the highest Conductivity at 298.15 K?

The correct answer is Copper.

Key Points

• Copper has the highest electrical conductivity among the given elements at 298.15 K, with a conductivity value of approximately 5.96 × 10⁷ S/m.
• Copper is widely used in electrical wiring, electronics, and power transmission due to its excellent conductivity.
• The high conductivity of copper is attributed to its free electron density and minimal resistance to electron flow.
• Copper is more conductive than gold, iron, and sodium, making it a preferred choice for applications requiring efficient energy transfer.
• It is also highly durable and resistant to corrosion, enhancing its reliability in electrical systems.

Additional Information

• Electrical Conductivity
  • Electrical conductivity is the measure of a material's ability to allow the flow of electric current.
  • It is expressed in units of siemens per meter (S/m).
  • Materials with high conductivity, like copper, are classified as conductors, while materials with low conductivity are called insulators.
• Copper's Properties
  • Copper has a low resistivity and high thermal conductivity, making it ideal for both electrical and heat transfer applications.
  • It is a ductile and malleable metal, allowing for easy shaping and processing.
  • Copper is widely used in alloys like bronze and brass for various industrial applications.
• Comparison with Gold
  • Although gold is highly conductive, it is less conductive than copper and significantly more expensive.
  • Gold is often used in specialized applications where corrosion resistance is critical, such as high-end electronics.
• Other Metals
  • Iron has a lower electrical conductivity compared to copper and is primarily used in structural and magnetic applications.
  • Sodium is a good conductor but is rarely used in electrical systems due to its chemical reactivity and instability.