iScience said:More specifically, the free electron density in increasing order goes like this:
Ag
Cu
Al
why then is the conductivity in the reverse order? ie the free electron density doesn't seem to play much of a role in conductivity beyond a certain point.
The reason for silver being the best conductor is due to its high electrical conductivity. This means that it allows electricity to flow through it easily, making it an excellent choice for conducting electricity.
Silver has the highest electrical conductivity of all metals, meaning that it has the lowest resistance to the flow of electricity. This is due to its atomic structure, which allows for the easy movement of electrons, resulting in efficient conduction of electricity.
Yes, apart from its atomic structure, silver also has a high thermal conductivity, meaning that it can efficiently transfer heat. This is due to its closely packed atoms, which allow for the easy transfer of energy. Additionally, silver is also a good reflector of light, making it useful in optical applications.
No, silver's conductivity decreases with increasing temperature, like most metals. However, even at high temperatures, silver still remains one of the best conductors compared to other metals.
One downside to using silver as a conductor is its high cost. Silver is a precious metal and is more expensive than other conductive materials, making it less practical for widespread use. Additionally, silver is also prone to tarnishing, which can affect its conductivity. Therefore, it is often coated with a protective layer to prevent tarnishing.