When digging into the Earth's crust (the solid outer layer of our planet), scientists have discovered that the rocks and dirt are made of specific chemical elements. Knowing which elements and metals are the most common is a basic Chemistry and Geography fact.
Despite Aluminium being the most abundant metal in the crust, the core (the very center) of the Earth is overwhelmingly made of Iron and Nickel!
The most abundant METAL in the Earth's crust is Aluminium (Al). It makes up about 8.1% of the total weight of the Earth's crust.
However, you cannot just dig up pure shiny aluminium from the ground. Because it is highly reactive, it is always found tightly bonded with oxygen and other elements in rocks, most commonly in an ore called Bauxite.
The second most abundant metal in the Earth's crust is Iron (Fe), which makes up about 5% of the crust's weight.
You must read exam questions very carefully!
In the 1800s, extracting pure aluminium from Bauxite rock was incredibly difficult and expensive. It wasn't until 1886, when the Hall-Héroult electrical process was invented, that aluminium became cheap enough to use for everyday items like soda cans.
The Reaction of Sodium and Water (Plus Sirka Meaning)
Understand the highly exothermic chemical reaction between Sodium and cold water. Also, learn the chemistry behind 'Sirka' (Vinegar / Acetic Acid).
What is the Atomic Number of Sodium?
Learn the atomic number, atomic mass, and electronic configuration of Sodium (Na). Understand why sodium is highly reactive and its important uses.
What is Solder an Alloy of?
Learn the composition of the alloy Solder. Understand why Lead and Tin are mixed to create an alloy with a low melting point for welding electrical wires.
Difference Between Solid, Liquid, and Gas
Learn the exact physical differences between Solid, Liquid, and Gas. Understand how the spacing and kinetic energy of atoms change across the three states of matter.
Solution, Solute and Solvent — Definitions, Differences & Examples
Solution solute and solvent explained — a solution is a homogeneous mixture, solute is the substance dissolved, solvent is what dissolves it. Examples & FAQs.
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