How Can You Tell If Metal Is Aluminum?
Last Updated Mar 26, 2020 11:53:48 PM ET
Aluminum is a light metal that is used to make a myriad of household and industrial items. Many people recycle scrap aluminum for money, but in order to do so, you must be certain that your metal is actually aluminum.
Test it with a magnet
Aluminum is not magnetic. Bring a magnet around aluminum and it will not stick; it will simply fall off. Test your unknown metal for magnetic pull. If it doesn't react, then it could be aluminum.
Grind it
If you have access to an angle grinder, try grinding a portion of the unknown metal down. Unlike most metals, aluminum will not produce sparks when ground with an angle grinder.
Estimate its weight
Aluminum is a very light metal. If your unknown metal is incredibly light, it might be aluminum.
More From Reference
What Is the Homestead Act of 1862?
How to Make an Emergency Preparedness Plan for Your Household
The (Failed) Assassination of Pope John Paul II and Its Odd Aftermath
What's Going on in Taiwan? How China-Taiwan Tensions Impact Global Relations
What Is a Coin Shortage, and Are We Facing One Right Now?
What Are the Strengths & Weaknesses of Psychoanalytic Theory?