What Is the Origin of Tin?
Tin was one of the first metals that humans were known to have discovered and used in ancient communities. It continues to be an important element in today's world. Does this Spark an idea?
-
Use in Ancient Civilizations
-
Tin was used in making bronze implements that date back to 3500 B.C. Bronze is an alloy made from copper and 5 to 10 percent tin. Tin was not used alone until about 600 B.C., according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
Prevalence
-
Compared with other metals, such as lead, copper and zinc, tin is much less prevalent a resource in the earth's crust. The mineral cassiterite is one important source of tin.
-
Mining
-
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, tin is mined all over the world. In total, about 35 countries today mine or smelt tin.
Scrap Tin
-
In addition to being mined from the Earth's crust, tin is acquired through the processing of scrap tin, in which the metal is reclaimed from an alloy or other source and used in a new product.
Uses Today
-
Tin is used today as a coating and in combination with other metals. It is important to soldering material, steel container coatings, glass making and other applications.
-
