That's easy to answer, it's one of the more important metals that we prospectors look for? It's part of the prospectors dream and we always try to chase it out of where it hides. We all know that gold is valuable and important, but sometimes we need a little reminder of just how great a metal Gold really is.
Here are some interesting facts about Gold.
The properties and uses of the metal gold.
Chemical symbol: Au
Atomic number: 79
Atomic weight: 196.967
Specific gravity: 19.3 (Twice as heavy as lead; 1 cubic foot weighs over half a
ton.)
Hardness: 2.5 to 3 on the Mohs hardness scale
Tensile strength: 19,000 pounds per square inch
Melting point: 1,945oF
Boiling point: 5,378oF
- Face centered-cubic crystalline structure.
- Most malleable and ductile of all metals.
- Inert, therefore does not corrode. (Referred to as a noble metal.)
- Good conductor of electricity.
- One ounce of gold can be stretched into a wire more than 40 miles long.
- Gold can be worked into a layer measuring 1 millionth of an inch.
- There are certain produced acid and alkaline compounds that will dissolve gold; the best known is aqua-regia, a potent combination of hydrochloric and nitric acids.
Gold is one of the earliest metals known and used by humans. It resists corrosion and chemical interaction. It will not disintegrate when exposed to oxygen, water, salt, or any other naturally-occurring material. Gold’s durability accounts for the almost perfect condition of coins and artifacts fashioned from it thousands of years ago.
Gold is used for investment purposes and jewelry however it's most important uses are in computers, weaponry and aerospace. It is used where consistent, reliable performance under all conditions is essential. The electronics industry has tried to find substitute metals and alloys, but gold’s exceptional resistance to corrosion and tarnish is still unequaled.
Happy Prospecting!
