Identifying the Densest Substance on Earth
Density is a measure of how much mass is contained in a given volume. Mathematically, it's expressed as $\rho = \frac{m}{V}$, where $\rho$ is density, $m$ is mass, and $V$ is volume.
Comparing Densities of Elements
The question asks for the densest substance on Earth among the given options. We need to compare the known densities of these materials:
- Osmium (Os): Approximately $22.59 \, \text{g/cm}^3$. Osmium is a rare, hard, brittle, silvery-white transition metal.
- Platinum (Pt): Approximately $21.45 \, \text{g/cm}^3$. Platinum is a dense, silvery-white metal.
- Copper (Cu): Approximately $8.96 \, \text{g/cm}^3$. Copper is a common metal known for its reddish-brown color.
- Steel: Density varies depending on composition, but typically around $7.85 \, \text{g/cm}^3$. Steel is an alloy of iron and carbon.
Conclusion on Densest Substance
Comparing the densities:
- Osmium: $22.59 \, \text{g/cm}^3$
- Platinum: $21.45 \, \text{g/cm}^3$
- Copper: $8.96 \, \text{g/cm}^3$
- Steel: ~$7.85 \, \text{g/cm}^3$
Osmium has the highest density among these options, making it the densest naturally occurring element on Earth.
| Substance | Approximate Density (g/cm3) |
| Osmium | $22.59$ |
| Platinum | $21.45$ |
| Copper | $8.96$ |
| Steel | $7.85$ |
Therefore, Osmium is the densest substance listed.
Similar Questions
- What element is a greenish yellow gas with a characteristic smell at room temperature?
- In the periodic table, as one goes down the group, which property doesn't change?
- Which of the following is a copper ore?
- Which scientist invented the Periodic table?
- The current Secretary General of United Nations Antonio Guterres belongs to:
Why do noble gases exist as gases at room temperature, while halogens exist as solids, liquids, or gases down the group?
Which factors are responsible for the increase in metallic character down a group in the periodic table?
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Important Questions from Classification of Elements and Periodicity in Properties
What is the valency of Lithium?
The maximum number of electrons that can be accommodated in the outermost orbit is _______.
If the atomic size increases, the nonmetallic character will
State the electronic configuration of Argon.
The ore of aluminium ‘bauxite’ is:
