Copper is a chemical element with symbol Cu

Several industrial types of copper ores are distinguished according to the mineral composition, the grain size of the minerals and the nature of their mutual interpenetration, and other factors. These ores are classified according to their chemical composition and the presence of copper sulfides, oxides, carbonates, or sulfates into the following natural groups: sulfide ores, oxide ores, and mixed ores.

Copper is used as a conductor of heat and electricity, as a building material, and as a constituent of various metal alloys, such as sterling silver used in jewelry, cupronickel used to make marine hardware , and constantan used in strain gauges and thermocouples for temperature measurement.