Copper is represented by the symbol ‘Cu’ on the periodic table because of its Latin name, ‘Cuprum.’ The name ‘Cuprum’ itself is derived from ‘Cyprium,’ which means ‘metal of Cyprus.’ Cyprus was a significant source of copper in ancient times. The use of Latin names for elements was common in the early days of chemistry, and many elements still retain these Latin-based symbols today. Therefore, ‘Cu’ is used to denote copper in the periodic table, reflecting its historical and etymological roots.
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