What are some important uses for silver?

Silver's compounds are used in photographic film and dilute solutions of silver nitrate and other silver compounds are used as disinfectants. Although the antimicrobial uses of silver have largely been supplanted by the use of antibiotics, further research into its clinical potential is in progress.

Sterling silver is used for jewelry and silverware. Silver is used for dental alloys, solder, electrical contacts, and batteries. Silver paints are used for making printed circuits. Silver is used to makes mirrors. Silver iodide is used in seeding clouds to produce rain. Silver is also used to produce coins.