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Copper nails. Copper (Cu) is a transition metal element. It is a soft, dense, ductile and malleable metal. It is also an excellent conductor and is used for electrical wiring. Copper has a melting point of 1084 degrees Celsius. Unlike iron, copper does not rust away in damp conditions, instead forming a protective layer of copper oxide that prevents further corrosion. Copper nails are also less brittle, bend rather than snapping. This leads to them being used in roofing construction and in water pipes and drains. (KEYSTONE/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY)