What is the Difference Between Aluminium and Alumina?

The main difference between aluminum and alumina lies in their composition and properties. Here are the key differences:

1. Composition: Aluminum is a chemical element with the atomic number 13 and the chemical symbol Al. Alumina, on the other hand, is a compound composed of aluminum and oxygen, with the chemical formula Al2O3.
2. Electrical Conductivity: Aluminum is a good conductor of electricity, while alumina is not.
3. Reactivity: Aluminum is highly reactive with acids or bases, whereas alumina is less reactive.
4. Hardness and Strength: Alumina is significantly harder than aluminum, with a Mohs hardness of 9 (close to diamonds at 10). Alumina is often used in the manufacture of refractory materials due to its high hardness.
5. Appearance: Aluminum is a silvery-white, lightweight, and ductile metal. Alumina is a white, crystalline substance.
6. Uses: Aluminum is widely used in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and packaging, due to its lightweight and ductile properties. Alumina is primarily used as an intermediate in the production of aluminum metal, but it also has applications in the manufacture of refractory materials, as a catalyst to enhance chemical reaction rates, as a water absorber to purify gases, and as a filler for plastics.

In summary, aluminum is a chemical element and a good conductor of electricity, while alumina is an aluminum-containing compound that is harder, less reactive, and has different applications.

Comparative Table: Aluminium vs Alumina

Here is a table highlighting the differences between aluminum and alumina:

In summary, aluminum is a chemical element, while alumina is a compound containing aluminum. They have different appearances, hardness levels, and uses. Aluminum is a lightweight, corrosion-resistant material used in various applications, while alumina is a hard substance used in abrasives, catalysts, and ceramics.