Copper is considered malleable due to its unique atomic structure and the way its atoms interact with one another. When subjected to stress or pressure, the layers of atoms in copper can slide over each other without breaking apart. This sliding ability is a result of the metallic bonds that hold the atoms together, which are strong yet flexible.
The malleability of copper allows it to be easily shaped into various forms, whether through hammering, rolling, or drawing. This property is crucial in many applications, including electrical wiring and piping, where copper’s ability to be formed into thin sheets or wires is an advantage.
Additionally, copper’s malleability is enhanced by its relatively low levels of impurities and its crystalline structure, which provides fewer barriers to the movement of atoms when force is applied. As a result, copper can be reformed and manipulated without shattering, making it a highly valuable material in both industry and art.