Al

Al is the chemical element with the symbol Al and atomic number 13. It is a silvery-white, lightweight metal that readily forms a protective oxide layer, giving it exceptional corrosion resistance. Aluminum is the third most abundant element in the Earth's crust, making up about 8% by weight.

It is a post-transition metal in group 13 of the periodic table. It has a low density of about 2.70 g/cm3, a melting point of 660.3°C, and a boiling point of 2519°C. It is highly malleable and ductile and conducts electricity less well than copper but is widely used as an electrical conductor due to its lightness.

Aluminum occurs primarily in the mineral bauxite. Commercial production begins with refining bauxite to alumina (Al2O3) using the Bayer process, followed by electrolysis in the Hall–Héroult process to obtain metallic aluminum. The process is energy-intensive and concentrated in regions with abundant low-cost electricity.

Major applications include packaging (foil, beverage cans), transportation (airframes and automobile components), construction (windows, façades, roofing), and electronics enclosures. Alloys with magnesium and silicon improve strength and reduce weight for aircraft, automotive parts, and consumer goods.

Aluminum is highly recyclable; recycled aluminum requires only a fraction of the energy needed to produce primary metal and can be repeatedly re-melted with minimal quality loss. Recycling reduces environmental impact and supports a circular economy, though mining and refining continue to raise environmental concerns.

Other uses of Al as a term include its abbreviation for the U.S. state of Alabama and the common given name Al, short for Albert or Alfred.