ABSTRACT
Silver (Latin: argentum) is a soft, white, and lustrous transition metal that possesses the highest electrical conductivity of any element and the highest thermal conductivity and reflectivity of any metal. The metal occurs naturally in its pure, free form (native silver), as an alloy with gold and other metals, and in minerals such as argentite. Most silver is produced as a by-product of copper, gold, lead, and zinc refining. Silver has long been valued as a precious metal. More abundant than gold, silver metal has in many premodern monetary systems functioned as coinable specie, sometimes even alongside gold. In addition, silver has numerous applications beyond currency, such as in solar panels, water filtration, jewelry and ornaments, and high-value tableware and utensils (hence the term “silverware”). Silver is used industrially in electrical contacts and conductors, in specialized mirrors, and in window coatings. Its compounds are used in photographic film and x-rays. Dilute silver nitrate solutions and other silver compounds are used as disinfectants and microbiocides (oligodynamic effect) and added to bandages and wound dressings, catheters, and other medical instruments.
