The metals aluminium and copper can be used to make pans for cooking. The table below shows information about the two metals. The higher the value for thermal conductivity, the better the metal conducts thermal energy.

\begin{tabular}{|l|c|c|}
\cline { 2 - 3 }
& Aluminium & Copper \\
\hline
\begin{tabular}{l}
Thermal conductivity in \\
arbitrary units
\end{tabular} & 250 & 400 \\
\hline
Density in g/cm[tex]\(^3\)[/tex] & 2.7 & 8.9 \\
\hline
Cost of metal per kg in \$ & 1.50 & 7.00 \\
\hline
\end{tabular}

Evaluate the use of pans made of aluminium and of copper using the table above.



Answer :

Let's evaluate the use of pans made of aluminium and copper based on three factors provided in the table: thermal conductivity, density, and cost.

### Thermal Conductivity

- Aluminium: 250 (arbitrary units)
- Copper: 400 (arbitrary units)

Higher thermal conductivity means better heat conduction.

Thus, copper has a higher thermal conductivity compared to aluminium. Therefore, copper is better for conducting thermal energy.

### Density

- Aluminium: 27 g/cm³
- Copper: 8.9 g/cm³

Lower density means the metal is lighter.

So, copper has a lower density compared to aluminium. Therefore, pans made of copper would be lighter than those made of aluminium.

### Cost

- Aluminium: 1.50 per kg
- Copper: 7.00 per kg

Lower cost means the metal is cheaper.

Thus, aluminium is cheaper compared to copper. Therefore, pans made of aluminium would cost less than those made of copper.

### Summary

- Thermal Conductivity: Copper is better because it has higher thermal conductivity (400 vs. 250).
- Density: Copper is better because it is lighter (8.9 g/cm³ vs. 27 g/cm³).
- Cost: Aluminium is better because it is cheaper (1.50 vs. 7.00).

Conclusion:

- Copper is superior in terms of thermal conductivity and density, making it a better choice for heat conduction and handling.
- Aluminium is more economical due to its lower cost.

When deciding between aluminium and copper pans, one should consider these factors. If budget is a constraint, aluminium pans are a cost-effective option. However, if the priority is better heat conduction and ease of handling due to lighter weight, copper pans are the preferable choice.