Metal

Explain the processes used in forming metals. Name one occupation in history that has used forming in metalworking.

A collection of processes in which metal is arranged into a desired shape. Most commonly with forming metal, the metal is heated until it reaches liquid form, and is shaped. It will then harden and remain in the shape created. Forming can also include casting, which involving shaping the metal using a hammer or some other form of pressure. Forming has been most commonly used by blacksmiths for centuries.

Compare and contrast bronze and iron.

Bronze includes a wide range of copper alloy metals, usually with tin as the main additive. Bronze is a durable metal and is widely used for casting, or pouring melted metal into a mold. Iron is a lustrous, silver, soft metal, taken mostly from iron ore hematite. Like bronze, iron can exist in many alloys. Iron alloys however are usually carbon based rather than copper based.

Describe the physical qualities and importance of gold.

Gold is a highly sought after dense, malleable, shiny, and soft precious metal that has been used as a form of currency for many centuries. It is the most valuable precious metal. It is aesthetically and intrinsically pleasing and has religious or symbolic meaning in many cultures.

Define metal. Identify the four primary types of metal.

Metal is an element with super and electric and thermal conductivity, high luster, and sensitivity. The four main types of metal are gold, bronze, silver, and iron.

Describe the physical attributes and historical importance of silver.

Silver is a soft, white, lustrous metal with the highest conductivity of any element. Silver is very ductile and malleable, slightly harder than gold. It can be flattened through hammering or another type of pressure. It can be used to make ornaments, jewelry, and utensils. It has the highest electrical conductivity of all metals.

What is the image above an example of? What might have been its purpose(s)? How has this type of metalworking changed in both style and meaning, and how does it still serve the same purpose(s)

The image above is an example of an ancient piece of jewelry. Jewelry was not only for aesthetic purposes in ancient times, but also for spiritual reasons. In ancient times, many people believed that wearing jewelry allowed a person to be spiritually connected to the gods. Today jewelry can still be a form of spiritual connection (Ex: Christian cross, Star of David, etc.), but most people see them as a reminder rather than a way of connecting or a from of protection. Jewelry for the most part is now ornamental.

Name this statue. What type(s) of metal and metalworking were used to create this statue?

The statue is the Statue of Liberty. This statue is made of a sheeting of pure copper with the exception of the flame of the torch, which is coated in gold leaf.