Which of the following statements describes why metals like gold are found in a free state in nature, while metals like sodium are not?
Gold is less reactive and does not combine easily with other elements
Gold lies at the bottom of the reactivity series; it does not react readily with oxygen, water or acids, so it occurs in nature in the free (native) state.
Sodium is at the top of the reactivity series; it reacts vigorously with oxygen and water, so it is always found combined, as compounds such as sodium chloride.
Softness, high density or melting point do not decide whether a metal occurs free — gold actually has a fairly high melting point (about 1064 °C).
Hence, the answer is Gold is less reactive and does not combine easily with other elements.
Similar Questions
A non-metal is found to be solid at room temperature, lustrous, and sublimes on heating. Which non-metal shows this unusual combination of physical properties?
A shipping company needs to ensure their iron cargo ships are protected from corrosion during long voyages through salty ocean water. Which strategy would be most effective for preventing corrosion for this purpose?
During the oxidation of copper, its surface acquires a black coloured coating due to the formation of which of the following compounds?
Which of the following metals will not show any observable change when placed in cold water, based on their position in the reactivity series?
What is the main purpose of anodising aluminium during its surface treatment process?
A mining company discovers a new metal that is low in the activity series and is found in its native state. Which extraction method should the company prioritize to obtain the pure metal efficiently?
In reactivity series metals are arranged in decreasing order of their activity. The metal which lies at the top of series is:
In the electrolytic refining of copper, which material is used as the cathode?
Metals like sodium and aluminium, placed at the top of the activity series, are extracted by:
Which of the following is an effective method to prevent corrosion?
Important Questions from Metals & Non-metals
Due to improper/indiscriminate disposal of hold and used computers or their parts, which of the following are released into the environment as e-waste?
1. Beryllium
2. Cadmium
3. Chromium
4. Heptachlor
5. Mercury
6. Lead
7. Plutonium
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
Recently, there has been a concern over the short supply of a group of elements called 'rare earth metals'. Why?
1. China, which is the largest producer of these elements, has imposed some restrictions on their export.
2. Other than China, Australia, Canada and Chile, these elements are not found in any country.
3. Rare earth metals are essential for the manufacture of various kinds of electronic items and there is a growing demand for these elements.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Which of the following metals CANNOT be cut with a knife?
Which of the following will be formed when dilute hydrochloric acid is added to a beaker having copper oxide ?
Which of the following statement is incorrect regarding metals?
