When you look at this copper slag, you see the foundation of humanity. Copper's malleability and ductility allow it to see a variety of uses, as it can be bent and shaped into whatever is called for. In addition, copper's relatively low melting point and cheap value have kept it relevant in civilizations for the past 10,000 years. Copper is a catalyst for advancing civilizations by increasing efficiency and finding use in various innovations.

The earliest usage of copper occurred in Iran, where it was used to create small pieces of jewelry such as beads. From there, copper found itself being fused with other elements and minerals through the process of smelting to obtain new properties that widened its use, primarily increased strength. The increase in smelting eventually birthed the bronze alloy, a fusion of copper and tin.

Even with the arrival of the iron age, copper reemerged with the invention of electricity and wiring, as its cheap cost and high thermal conductivity made it an excellent component for transferring electrical currents. This only continued to reign true when the information age struck, as the computer chip uses copper for the same reasons that copper is used in wiring. Copper may not be the best at anything (many metals may offer better conductivity, price, or durability), but none do it all as well as copper.

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By Tyler Straub