Tungsten is expensive for several reasons:
Scarcity: Tungsten is relatively rare in the earth’s crust and is not typically found in concentrated deposits. This scarcity increases the costs of extraction and production. Difficulty in mining and processing: Tungsten ore usually exists in complex geological structures, and its extraction and processing require specialized technology, equipment and processes, which are costly. High Melting Point: Tungsten has the highest melting point of all metals, making it challenging to process and use. The high temperatures required for its processing increase production costs. Industry-specific needs: Tungsten’s unique properties, such as high density, hardness and resistance to high temperatures, make it valuable in applications such as aerospace, defense, electronics and industrial machinery. Demand from these industries is likely to drive up prices.
These factors contribute to the relatively high cost of tungsten compared to other metals.
Whether tungsten is “better” than gold depends on the circumstances and the specific properties or characteristics considered. Tungsten and gold have different uses and applications. Gold is known for its high value and appeal in jewelry and as a store of value. It is also used in electronics, dentistry, and as a form of currency. Gold is malleable, malleable, and does not tarnish, making it suitable for a variety of decorative and industrial uses. Tungsten, on the other hand, has a very high melting point, high density, and is very hard. These properties make it suitable for applications where durability, high temperature resistance and hardness are important, such as industrial tools, electronics and high temperature environments. Therefore, whether one material is “better” than another depends on the specific requirements of the application. Each material has its own unique properties and benefits.