Stuff You Should Know How Alumin(i)um Works
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Jun 15, 2023 Discover how aluminum transformed from a rare gem to an essential part of modern life. Dive into its significant impact on aviation, highlighting innovations from the Wright Brothers. Learn about the environmental benefits of aluminum recycling and the fascinating history of aluminum cans and foil. Explore amusing anecdotes and myths surrounding this versatile metal, while also pondering etiquette on airplanes. Delve into the captivating evolution of aluminum and its undeniable role in our everyday existence.
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Aluminum's Ubiquity vs. Novelty
- Aluminum is ubiquitous in the modern world, found in countless everyday items.
- Despite its widespread use, aluminum is a relatively new material, primarily used since the 20th century.
Aluminum's Abundance and Reactivity
- Aluminum is abundant in the Earth's crust, comprising 8% of its total mass.
- It's highly reactive and bonds easily with other elements, making extraction challenging.
Early Aluminum Use and an Out-of-Place Artifact
- While aluminum extraction proved difficult, alum, a form of aluminum sulfate, has been used for thousands of years.
- An aluminum belt, discovered in a 3rd-century Chinese tomb, challenges our historical understanding.