The following methods can be used to quickly distinguish between copper wire and copper-clad aluminum wire:
Appearance observation
Copper wire: It is purplish red or reddish-brown in color, with a smooth surface and a metallic luster.
Copper-clad aluminum wire: It is grayish-white or silver-white in color. Its surface may not be as smooth as that of copper wire and has a lower gloss.
Weight comparison
Copper wire has a relatively high density. Copper wire of the same length and cross-sectional area is heavier than copper-clad aluminum wire.
You can take copper wire and copper-clad aluminum wire of the same length and compare their weights. Copper wire is usually heavier.
