Silver (Ag)
Silver is a light gray, lustrous, precious element found in transition group I B of the periodic table. Silver reflects light exceptionally well. Because it is very soft, it can easily be shaped by pressing, hammering, rolling or casting techniques, but its mechanical strength is quite low. Silver is an expensive material that conducts electricity and heat extremely well. It also dulls and loses its shine on contact with air, which is why it is mostly used in alloys with other, harder metals (such as cadmium, zinc and tin). These alloys are used in industry far more widely than pure silver. The main reasons are that the alloys are cheaper and more durable than pure silver, and that they keep their shine longer.
Areas of use:
Jewelry and ornamental items
Home accessories
Photographic industry
Mirror silvering
Dentistry
