perusmetallista

Perusmetalli is a Finnish term that translates to "base metal" in English. It refers to metals that are more common, less expensive, and tend to tarnish or corrode more easily than precious metals. Common examples of perusmetallit include iron, copper, lead, zinc, and nickel. These metals are widely used in industry, construction, and everyday objects due to their abundance and cost-effectiveness. Unlike precious metals such as gold, silver, and platinum, which are valued for their rarity and resistance to corrosion, base metals are primarily utilized for their functional properties. Their tendency to oxidize or react with their environment is a key characteristic that distinguishes them. In metallurgy, the distinction is important for various applications, including alloying, manufacturing, and historical contexts where the value and use of metals differed significantly. The term is not strictly defined by chemical properties alone but also by economic and practical considerations in their usage.