The non-renewable copper
By Ethan Ratta
Summary of what I've learned about copper
Copper is found in various minerals including azurite, malachite, chalocite, antite, chalcopyrite and bornite. Chile, the U.S., and Peru are the world's leading producers of copper. In the U.S., copper is produced in Arizona, Utah, and New Mexico. It is also found in Keweenaw Peninsula near Lake Superior, Michigan. Copper is a non-renewable resource, and yet is the most used mineral because of its resistance to corrosion. Until 1837, the U.S. penny was made with pure copper, but is now made with a copper shell (2.5%) over zinc (97.5%). It was the first element used by humans, because it was easy to find and produce. It is found in rivers and can also be mined from caves. It's also used because of its resistance to heat and electricity. Another way it is used is when mixed with other minerals or elements they make copper alloys. There are over 750 copper alloys. One common copper alloy is brass, it is used in most instruments because of its resistance to corrosion (water).
Chalcopyrite
Malachite
Dioptase
Enviromental Concerns and Issues
Definitions
Resource = a material humans, animals, and/or plants use
Non-renewable resource = a resource that is used up faster than it can be made by nature
Renewable resource = a resource that is made by nature faster than it is used
Inexhaustible resource = a resource used that never runs out; a limitless resource