All conductors have resistance and the amount of resistance varies with the element. But, resistance isn't the only consideration when choosing a conductor as the most highly conductive elements like silver and gold are also more expensive and more brittle than slightly less conductive elements like copper. A balance needs to be struck between the electrical qualities of a material and its cost and durability.
Silver and gold are among the most highly conductive elements. Why is copper used much more often as a conductor in electrical circuits?
silver and gold are brittle |
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all of these |
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copper is durable and relatively cheap |
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silver and gold are costly |