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Base Metals

Base metals are common and inexpensive metals that are widely used in industrial applications. Unlike precious metals such as gold and silver, base metals include materials like copper, aluminum, zinc, lead, and nickel. These metals are essential for manufacturing and construction due to their durability and conductivity, making them crucial for the global economy. Base metals are often traded on commodity markets, and their prices can be volatile, influenced by supply and demand dynamics, economic conditions, and geopolitical events.

Example

Copper is a widely used base metal in electrical wiring due to its excellent conductivity, and its price is a key indicator of economic activity.

Key points

• Common, inexpensive metals used in industrial applications.

• Includes metals like copper, aluminum, and zinc.

• Prices are influenced by supply, demand, and economic conditions.

Quick Answers to Curious Questions

They are essential for manufacturing, construction, and infrastructure development due to their durability and conductivity.

Base metals are more common and less expensive, while precious metals are rarer and have higher economic value, often used for investment and jewelry.

Prices are driven by supply and demand, economic growth, and geopolitical factors that affect production and distribution.