Copper basics

Question 1

Source

Answer 1

Tectonic plates at fold mountains
At igenous rock
1.6 billion tonnes available

Question 2

Distribution

Answer 2

60% as porphyry
S. America - 45% copper from Andes
USA and Poland
China = largest consumer and 2nd producer

Question 3

End used

Answer 3

Wire (ductile)
Electricity (conductive)
Piping (corrosion resistant)
Hygiene (biostatic)
Alloy (brass and bronze)
Military use
Ornamental
Chemicals
Agriculture

Question 4

Components for demand

Answer 4

Equipment
Construction
Infrastructure
Transport

Question 5

Role in global commerce

Answer 5

Increase over 25 years
Widely recycled
Copper price - main driver for copper production
Prices have fallen since demand fallen due to Chinese economy
Reduction in military demand
Indicator of economy wealth

Question 6

Geology determining deposits

Answer 6

Magmatic - crusts that come in contact with magma and crystallised
Hydrothermal - magma intrusions creating deformations
Metamorphogenic - intense heat and pressure changes pre-existing deposits
Sedimentary - tubular and sheet like, folded and faulted

Question 7

Location determining deposits

Answer 7

Exploitation determined by remoteness and market
Deserts, forests and mountains left unexplored
Recent tech allowed exploration