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"However copper is cheaper than gold and has superior electrical properties, and so remains a compelling choice" Superior electrical properties? Copper > Gold?? That doesn't sound right.
- It's true. Copper has a resistivity of 16.78 nΩ·m and gold has a resistivity 22.14 nΩ·m. However, copper soon gains an insulating oxide passivation layer, whereas gold is largely inert and will not. This is why gold is used on connectors and such. If oxidation is prevented, then copper is best, and silver is better (15.87 nΩ·m, but oxides even worse and costs more). Just because gold is expensive doesn't automatically make it better! Inductiveload (talk) 07:15, 19 November 2008 (UTC)