Why did I think gold was more electrically conductive than copper? Apparently it’s not and silver is even more conductive than copper. The same is true with thermal conductivity as well.
Because it is more electrically conductive than tarnished copper or silver, so electronics prefer gold since it can’t tarnish and will never degrade. If silver was chosen for CPUs, for instance, pretty much all devices would have to be hermetically sealed or be replaced within 18 months. Copper is only used in electronics when it will be relatively sealed in place (like in PCBs)
Why did I think gold was more electrically conductive than copper? Apparently it’s not and silver is even more conductive than copper. The same is true with thermal conductivity as well.
Because it is more electrically conductive than tarnished copper or silver, so electronics prefer gold since it can’t tarnish and will never degrade. If silver was chosen for CPUs, for instance, pretty much all devices would have to be hermetically sealed or be replaced within 18 months. Copper is only used in electronics when it will be relatively sealed in place (like in PCBs)