Copper and compounds has a widespread use in a range of applications. It is used to make electrical products and electronics (electrical generators and motors, electrical power and lighting fixtures, electrical wiring, radio and television sets, computers, air-conditioning systems and other electrical appliances), in building construction (water pipes, roof coverings), equipment and heating (refrigeration units, motor vehicle radiators, home heating systems, steam condensers), and chemical and pharmaceutical manufacturing.

It is used in pigments and dyes, electroplated protective coatings and undercoatings, cooking utensils, insulation for liquid fuels, coins, cement, food and drugs, metallurgy, nylons, insecticides, herbicides and fungicides, pollution control devices, printing and photocopying, photographics, pyrotechnics and wood preservatives and timber treatments.

It is also used to manufacture anti-fouling paints, electrolysis and electroplating processes, fabrics and textiles, flame proofing materials, glass and ceramics.

Copper forms many alloys such as bronze (with tin), brass (with zinc) and monel metal (with nickel), also used in a variety of industries.