Light metal explained

A light metal is any metal of relatively low density.^[1] More specific definitions have been proposed; none have obtained widespread acceptance. Magnesium, aluminium and titanium are light metals of significant commercial importance.^[2] Their densities of 1.7, 2.7 and 4.5 g/cm³ range from 19 to 56% of the densities of the older structural metals,^[3] iron (7.9) and copper (8.9).

See also

• Heavy metals

Notes and References

1. Jackson JA, Mehl JP, Neuendorf KKE (eds) 2005, Glossary of Geology, 5th ed., American Geological Institute, Alexandria,, p. 371
2. Brandes EA & Brook GB (eds) 1998, Light Metals Handbook, Butterworth Heinemann, Oxford,, p. viii
3. Polmear I 2006, Light Alloys: From Traditional Alloys to Nanocrystals, 4th ed., Butterworth Heinemann, Oxford,, p. 1