GOLD : GEOGRAPHY

NEWS : What to make it desirable

 

WHAT’S IN THE NEWS ?

Each of the Nobel Prizes to be awarded from October 7 will include a medal of electrum, an alloy of gold and silver, plated with 24 carat gold.

 

GOLD:

  • Aesthetic Appeal: Highly valued for its beauty, making it popular for jewelry and adornments.
  • Corrosion Resistance: Excellent durability ensures longevity in various applications.
  • Malleability and Ductility: Can be shaped into intricate designs and thin sheets.
  • Conductive Properties: Ideal for electrical connectors and components in electronic devices.
  • Tarnish and Oxidation Resistance: Maintains its lustre over time.
  • Stable Store of Value: Used as an investment hedge against inflation and economic instability.
  • Scarcity: Limited availability enhances its desirability.
  • Historical Significance: Traditionally used as currency, adding to its value.
  • Industrial Applications: Utilized in electronics, medicine, and aerospace due to unique properties.
  • Cultural Significance: Associated with wealth and status, further contributing to its appeal.

Source : https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/what-is-gold/article68724025.ece