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Like other mined metals, platinum serves as a multipurpose commodity used by various industries throughout the world. Some may value platinum-made jewelry over even 14-carat gold, and when it comes to assembling electronic products platinum is a highly...
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It makes sense that aluminum is one of the most common elements in our planet, as aluminum is prevalent in nearly everything we use. We drink from aluminum cans, and use foil to protect and cook foods. We used the finished product for containers, transportation...
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One may presume silver takes a backseat to gold where interest in precious metals is concerned, yet economists and manufacturers highly prized this precious metal. Like gold and copper mining, the production of silver for commercial use and luxury remains...
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While a large percentage of gold mined around the world is used to make items of great value – notably jewelry, collectible currency, and similar possession – you may be surprised to know this precious metal is also valued in the construction of various...
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"Plastics." In the classic film The Graduate, young Benjamin is advised to consider plastics in his career plans because the industry is decidedly primed to play a large role in the future. One can argue that the film correctly predicted the...
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How precious is copper? There once was a time when copper comprised the bulk of a United States cent piece (now it is mostly zinc composition), and recently news of copper thefts have brought awareness to its value. Thieves are willing to take copper...
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Wine enjoys a rich history that dates back to ancient civilizations. As early as 6,000 BC, men had developed methods of fermenting grapes to produce wine, which was treated as a valuable commodity in trade. As global exploration brought settlers to new...
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In recent years we hear more about businesses making the commitment to “go green.” For many, this may entail the gradual phasing out of paperwork in place of digital documents and reports shared online. Newspapers and magazine now offer digital editions...
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Gas, petrol, petroleum…no matter how often we curse the price of it we wait in line to buy more. We may calculate exactly where to find the best costs per gallon or liter as we drive around town, and probably assume it all comes from the same place. It...
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Every time we turn on a washing machine or stove, or check the water heater to make sure the temperature is set, we probably don’t give thought to what powers the things that bring convenience to our lives. Many homeowners may think electricity runs the...
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When you think of coal, likely the images of production come to mind. In the United States, one may depict the industry as supported by small towns in the Appalachian area, with coal dug and hauled by men who brave mines deep in the earth. Indeed, coal...
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Where centuries ago man relied on leather as a necessity for clothing and shelter, modern times showcase leather almost as a status symbol. A home with leather upholstered furnishings and a car with leather seats may indicate wealth, while a leather jacket...
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These days, it seems impossible to go anywhere without checking your mobile phone for an incoming message, scanning a QR code, or sharing a status update via social media. In restaurants, on the subway, even clandestinely in church, somebody, somewhere...
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In the United States, one city is typically synonymous with the automotive industry. It’s challenging to think of an American made car without thinking of Detroit, Michigan, and in recent years the financial trouble the automobile giant has endured. Though...
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Depending on where you live, shoes are considered more than a necessity to protect your feet as you walk – they are viewed as status symbols. Young children wishing to emulate a favorite athlete will seek the brand they wear, and television shows like...