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Definition of the Gold Element
A soft, yellow,
corrosion-resistant element, the most malleable and ductile metal,
occurring in veins and alluvial deposits and recovered by mining
or by panning or sluicing. A good thermal and electrical
conductor, gold is generally alloyed to increase its strength, and
it is used as an international monetary standard, in jewelry, for
decoration, and as a plated coating on a wide variety of
electrical and mechanical components.
Origin / Meaning of the name Gold
The name originates
from the Old English Anglo-Saxon word 'geolo' meaning yellow. The
Symbol Origin is from the Latin word 'aurum' meaning gold.
Argentina was named for this precious metal.
Classification of the Gold Element
Gold is classified
as a "Transition Metal" which are located in Groups 3 - 12 of the
Periodic Table. An Element classified as a Transition Metals is
ductile, malleable, and able to conduct electricity and heat.
The
Discovery of Gold
Facts about the History of the Gold
Element
Gold was discovered in
Ancient times and used by the ancient South Americans, Asians,
Egyptians, Greeks, Romans and Chinese. It is mentioned in the
Bible. Gold is measured by troy weight and by gram. The term
'carat' meaning purity is used to indicate the amount of gold
present, with 24 carats being pure gold and lower ratings
proportionally less.
Occurrence the Gold Element
Obtained from the crust of the earth
Hydrothermal ore deposits of gold occur in metamorphic rocks and
igneous rocks
Found as the native metal occasionally as large nuggets
Copper ores
Associated Uses of Gold
Precious metal
Currency
Coinage
Jewelry
Tableware
Dental alloys
Electronics
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