Let’s say the world is ending and you’re the only one alive. You need to create civilization again and you need some information about tools devices and minerals. In this post I will explain to you how you can get copper mineral/nugget and convert it to shining metal.
Copper is among the rare elements that occur in nature in nearly pure form.
Where can we find copper in nature:
During ancient times, particularly in the Bronze Age, people discovered copper in nature primarily through surface occurrences and stream sediments. They observed the distinctive colors and patterns of copper minerals like malachite, azurite, and chalcopyrite, which helped identify potential copper deposits. You can use this way and find copper mines. Just remember the color of copper rocks.
Look for igneous rocks, which originate from volcanic activity. Copper is typically found in igneous rock formations surrounded by rocks altered by volcanic pressure and high temperatures, known as porphyry copper deposits. Keep an eye out for rocks with a green hue or ore samples containing green flecks, as this coloration is characteristic of copper.
Surface Deposits: The easiest way to find copper in ancient times was by discovering surface deposits. Native copper can be found in shallow pits or just ground. Ancient people notice this nugget while gathering other materials.
River sediments: Water can transport copper minerals from rocks and store them in streambeds. Ancient guys have observed minerals containing copper, such as malachite/azurite, in the river bed, or noticed the green or blue stains that these minerals leave on rocks along the banks.
Mining and quarrying: As societies advanced, methods for extracting minerals from underground deposits were developed. Old excavators might have followed veins of copper minerals into the earth or dug shafts and passages looking for important metals.
Converting copper nugget or rock to metal for usage:
Smashing and Crushing: Utilize fundamental devices, for example, rock axes and just rock to pound and crush the copper metal into a fine powder. This can be a work serious cycle and may require various emphases to accomplish the ideal molecule size.
Gravity separation techniques: Gravity separation techniques are used to separate the heavier copper minerals from the lighter gangue minerals after crushing and grinding. This can be done by gently shaking the powdered ore in a shallow pan or using a sluice box to allow the heavier copper particles to settle to the bottom.
Smelting: Build a stove using clay or another heat-resistant machine. The source of fuel can be wood or coal. The copper minerals melt and separate from the gangue minerals due to the intense heat. The molten copper is poured off, leaving behind the slag (waste material).
Casting: Once you have obtained molten Copper, you need to pour it into molds to make Ingots or other shaped pieces. Simple molds can be made from clay or sand.
Refining: If you want more pure copper you can melt it again and it clears all oil and other minerals again from copper.
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