Metal MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for Metal - Download Free PDF

The correct answer is Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.

Key Points

• Metals generally possess a lustrous appearance, meaning they are shiny, which is one of their defining physical properties.
• Metals are known to be excellent conductors of heat and electricity due to the presence of free electrons that move freely through the lattice structure.
• Non-metals, on the other hand, lack lustre and are typically poor conductors of heat and electricity because they do not have free electrons available for conduction.
• The Assertion (A) that "Metals generally have a lustrous appearance and are good conductors of heat and electricity" is true.
• The Reason (R) that "Non-metals lack lustre and are usually poor conductors of heat and electricity" is also true.
• Reason (R) provides a valid explanation for the behavior of metals mentioned in the assertion. The comparison between metals and non-metals helps to understand why metals exhibit these properties.
• The relationship between metals and non-metals is based on their atomic structure, which defines their distinct physical and chemical properties.
• Examples of metals include copper, silver, and gold, which are highly lustrous and conductive. Examples of non-metals include carbon, sulfur, and phosphorus, which are dull and non-conductive.

Additional Information

Properties of metal-

• high melting points.
• good conductors of electricity.
• good conductors of heat.
• high density.
• malleability
• ductility 

Properties of non-metal-

• non-metals are neither malleable nor ductile; they are brittle.

The Correct answer is ductility.

Key Points

• Ductility refers to the ability of a material to be stretched into a wire without breaking.
• This property is commonly associated with metals, allowing them to be drawn into thin wires.
• Gold and silver are examples of highly ductile metals.
• Ductility is a key factor in industrial applications, especially in electrical wiring and metal forming.
• It is measured by the material’s ability to undergo significant plastic deformation before rupture.
• Materials with high ductility can absorb significant stress and strain, making them ideal for construction and manufacturing.

 Additional Information

• Hardness
  • Hardness is the measure of a material's resistance to deformation, particularly indentation or scratching.
  • It is often assessed using tests like the Mohs hardness test or the Rockwell hardness test.
  • Materials like diamonds are known for their high hardness.
• Malleability
  • Malleability is the ability of a material to be hammered or rolled into thin sheets without breaking.
  • Examples of malleable materials include gold and aluminum.
  • This property is crucial for applications in metalworking and manufacturing.
• Brittleness
  • Brittleness refers to the tendency of a material to break or shatter without significant deformation when under stress.
  • Brittle materials, like glass and ceramics, have low ductility and malleability.

The correct answer is Mercury.

Key Points

• Mercury is the only metal that is liquid at room temperature.
• The chemical symbol for mercury is Hg, derived from its Greek name, hydrargyrum, meaning "water-silver".
• Mercury is a heavy, silvery-white metal and is known for its high density and ability to form amalgams with other metals.
• It has a melting point of -38.83 degrees Celsius and a boiling point of 356.73 degrees Celsius.
• Mercury is used in various applications such as thermometers, barometers, and dental amalgams, though its use has decreased due to toxicity concerns.

Additional Information

• Toxicity of Mercury
  • Mercury is highly toxic, especially in its organic form (methylmercury).
  • Exposure to mercury can affect the nervous system, digestive system, and immune system, and can be fatal.
  • Minamata disease is a neurological syndrome caused by severe mercury poisoning.
  • Due to its toxicity, the use and disposal of mercury are strictly regulated.
• Mercury in the Environment
  • Mercury can be released into the environment through industrial processes, such as coal burning and mining.
  • Once in the environment, mercury can be converted to methylmercury by microbial activity in water bodies.
  • Methylmercury accumulates in fish and shellfish, leading to bioaccumulation and biomagnification up the food chain.
  • Consuming contaminated fish is a primary source of mercury exposure for humans.
• Handling and Safety
  • Due to its toxicity, mercury must be handled with care using appropriate safety measures, such as gloves and fume hoods.
  • Spills should be cleaned up immediately using specialized kits designed for mercury spillages.
  • Disposal of mercury requires adherence to hazardous waste regulations to prevent environmental contamination.
  • Mercury-free alternatives are increasingly being used in medical and industrial applications to mitigate risks.

The correct answer is Zinc.Key Points

• Zinc is more reactive than copper.
• Zinc is more reactive than copper metal and so it can displace copper from copper sulphate solution.
• Zinc displaces the metals present below it in the series.

Additional Information

• Reactivity of an element decreases from top to bottom in the given reactivity series.
  • Potassium (K) 
  • Sodium (Na) 
  • Calcium (Ca)
  • Magnesium (Mg) 
  • Aluminium (Al) 
  • Zinc (Zn) 
  • Carbon (C) 
  • Iron (Fe) 
  • Lead (Pb) 
  • Hydrogen (H) 
  • Copper (Cu) 
  • Silver (Ag)
  • Gold (Au)
• Platinum is known as a noble metal due to its remarkable resistance to corrosion and oxidation. It is one of the least reactive metals, which means that it does not easily react with other elements or compounds under normal conditions. This property makes platinum highly valuable for use in a variety of applications, such as in electronics, jewelry, and catalytic converters in vehicles.

The correct answer is Gold and platinum.

Key Points

• Gold and platinum are found in their native state due to their low reactivity.
• They are part of the noble metals group, which resist oxidation and corrosion.
• Gold and platinum are often found in their elemental form in nature, not combined with other elements.
• These metals are less likely to form compounds with other elements, which is why they are found in pure form.
• Both metals have been used historically in coinage, jewelry, and industrial applications due to their stability and rarity.

Additional Information

• Reactivity Series of Metals
  • The reactivity series arranges metals in order of their reactivity from highest to lowest.
  • Metals higher in the series, like potassium and sodium, are more reactive and readily form compounds.
  • Metals lower in the series, like gold and platinum, are less reactive and often found in their native state.
  • The reactivity series helps predict how metals will react with acids, water, and other substances.
• Native State
  • A native state refers to metals found in nature in their pure, elemental form.
  • Metals like gold, silver, and platinum are typically found in their native state due to their resistance to corrosion and oxidation.
  • Finding metals in their native state was historically significant for early human societies, leading to the development of metallurgy.
• Noble Metals
  • Noble metals include gold, platinum, and other metals resistant to corrosion and oxidation.
  • They are called "noble" due to their stability and rarity.
  • Noble metals are used in various high-value applications, including electronics, jewelry, and catalytic converters.
• Industrial and Historical Significance
  • Gold and platinum have been valued throughout history for their beauty and rarity.
  • Both metals have significant industrial applications due to their conductive and catalytic properties.
  • Gold is widely used in electronics for its excellent conductivity and resistance to tarnish.
  • Platinum is crucial in the automotive industry for catalytic converters, reducing harmful emissions.

The correct answer is Zinc.Key Points

• Zinc is more reactive than copper.
• Zinc is more reactive than copper metal and so it can displace copper from copper sulphate solution.
• Zinc displaces the metals present below it in the series.

Additional Information

• Reactivity of an element decreases from top to bottom in the given reactivity series.
  • Potassium (K) 
  • Sodium (Na) 
  • Calcium (Ca)
  • Magnesium (Mg) 
  • Aluminium (Al) 
  • Zinc (Zn) 
  • Carbon (C) 
  • Iron (Fe) 
  • Lead (Pb) 
  • Hydrogen (H) 
  • Copper (Cu) 
  • Silver (Ag)
  • Gold (Au)
• Platinum is known as a noble metal due to its remarkable resistance to corrosion and oxidation. It is one of the least reactive metals, which means that it does not easily react with other elements or compounds under normal conditions. This property makes platinum highly valuable for use in a variety of applications, such as in electronics, jewelry, and catalytic converters in vehicles.

The correct answer is Mercury.

Key Points

• Mercury is the only metal that is liquid at room temperature.
• The chemical symbol for mercury is Hg, derived from its Greek name, hydrargyrum, meaning "water-silver".
• Mercury is a heavy, silvery-white metal and is known for its high density and ability to form amalgams with other metals.
• It has a melting point of -38.83 degrees Celsius and a boiling point of 356.73 degrees Celsius.
• Mercury is used in various applications such as thermometers, barometers, and dental amalgams, though its use has decreased due to toxicity concerns.

Additional Information

• Toxicity of Mercury
  • Mercury is highly toxic, especially in its organic form (methylmercury).
  • Exposure to mercury can affect the nervous system, digestive system, and immune system, and can be fatal.
  • Minamata disease is a neurological syndrome caused by severe mercury poisoning.
  • Due to its toxicity, the use and disposal of mercury are strictly regulated.
• Mercury in the Environment
  • Mercury can be released into the environment through industrial processes, such as coal burning and mining.
  • Once in the environment, mercury can be converted to methylmercury by microbial activity in water bodies.
  • Methylmercury accumulates in fish and shellfish, leading to bioaccumulation and biomagnification up the food chain.
  • Consuming contaminated fish is a primary source of mercury exposure for humans.
• Handling and Safety
  • Due to its toxicity, mercury must be handled with care using appropriate safety measures, such as gloves and fume hoods.
  • Spills should be cleaned up immediately using specialized kits designed for mercury spillages.
  • Disposal of mercury requires adherence to hazardous waste regulations to prevent environmental contamination.
  • Mercury-free alternatives are increasingly being used in medical and industrial applications to mitigate risks.

The Correct answer is ductility.

Key Points

• Ductility refers to the ability of a material to be stretched into a wire without breaking.
• This property is commonly associated with metals, allowing them to be drawn into thin wires.
• Gold and silver are examples of highly ductile metals.
• Ductility is a key factor in industrial applications, especially in electrical wiring and metal forming.
• It is measured by the material’s ability to undergo significant plastic deformation before rupture.
• Materials with high ductility can absorb significant stress and strain, making them ideal for construction and manufacturing.

 Additional Information

• Hardness
  • Hardness is the measure of a material's resistance to deformation, particularly indentation or scratching.
  • It is often assessed using tests like the Mohs hardness test or the Rockwell hardness test.
  • Materials like diamonds are known for their high hardness.
• Malleability
  • Malleability is the ability of a material to be hammered or rolled into thin sheets without breaking.
  • Examples of malleable materials include gold and aluminum.
  • This property is crucial for applications in metalworking and manufacturing.
• Brittleness
  • Brittleness refers to the tendency of a material to break or shatter without significant deformation when under stress.
  • Brittle materials, like glass and ceramics, have low ductility and malleability.

The correct answer is Option 4.

Key Points

• Option 4 states that "Certain materials called semiconductors by definition have zero resistivity or infinite conductivity," which is incorrect.
• Semiconductors have a moderate level of conductivity, which is between that of insulators and conductors.
• Semiconductors like silicon and germanium do not have zero resistivity; their resistivity decreases with increasing temperature.
• In semiconductors, conductivity can be controlled by adding impurities, a process known as doping.

Additional Information

• Conductors
  • Materials that allow the flow of electric current with minimal resistance.
  • Examples include metals like copper, silver, and aluminum.
• Insulators
  • Substances with very low conductivity, preventing the flow of electric current.
  • Examples include glass, ceramics, and plastics.
• Semiconductors
  • Materials with conductivity between conductors and insulators.
  • Used in electronic devices like transistors and diodes.
  • Examples include silicon and germanium.
• Doping
  • The process of adding impurities to semiconductors to change their electrical properties.
  • Increases the number of charge carriers in the material.

The correct answer is Zinc.Key Points

• Zinc is more reactive than copper.
• Zinc is more reactive than copper metal and so it can displace copper from copper sulphate solution.
• Zinc displaces the metals present below it in the series.

Additional Information

• Reactivity of an element decreases from top to bottom in the given reactivity series.
  • Potassium (K) 
  • Sodium (Na) 
  • Calcium (Ca)
  • Magnesium (Mg) 
  • Aluminium (Al) 
  • Zinc (Zn) 
  • Carbon (C) 
  • Iron (Fe) 
  • Lead (Pb) 
  • Hydrogen (H) 
  • Copper (Cu) 
  • Silver (Ag)
  • Gold (Au)
• Platinum is known as a noble metal due to its remarkable resistance to corrosion and oxidation. It is one of the least reactive metals, which means that it does not easily react with other elements or compounds under normal conditions. This property makes platinum highly valuable for use in a variety of applications, such as in electronics, jewelry, and catalytic converters in vehicles.

The correct answer is Sodium.

Key Points

• Sodium reacts vigorously with cold water to produce sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and hydrogen gas (H₂).
• The reaction is highly exothermic, meaning it releases a significant amount of heat.
• Because of its vigorous reaction with water, sodium is stored in kerosene or mineral oil to prevent it from coming into contact with moisture.
• In the reactivity series of metals, sodium is placed higher up, indicating its high reactivity.

Additional Information

• Reactivity Series: This is a series of metals arranged in order of decreasing reactivity. The most reactive metals are at the top, and the least reactive are at the bottom.
• Exothermic Reaction: A chemical reaction that releases energy by light or heat. It is the opposite of an endothermic reaction.
• Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH): Also known as caustic soda or lye, it is a highly caustic metallic base and alkali salt used in many industrial processes.
• Hydrogen Gas (H₂): The lightest and most abundant chemical substance in the universe, hydrogen gas is highly flammable and is used in various industrial applications.
• Storage of Sodium: Due to its high reactivity with water and air, sodium is stored under oil to prevent accidental reactions.

The Correct answer is Potassium.

Key Points

• Potassium is known to be the most reactive metal in the reactivity series.
• It belongs to the alkali metals group in the periodic table, which is Group 1.
• Potassium reacts vigorously with water, producing hydrogen gas and heat, which can ignite the hydrogen.
• Its high reactivity is due to its single valence electron, which it can easily lose to form a positive ion.
• This metal must be stored in oil or an inert atmosphere to prevent it from reacting with moisture or oxygen in the air.
• Potassium is used in various applications, including fertilizers and as a critical element in biological processes.

 Additional Information

• Gold
  • Gold is a less reactive metal and is found in its native form in nature.
  • It is highly valued for its non-reactivity and is used extensively in jewelry and electronics due to its excellent conductivity.
• Zinc
  • Zinc is a moderately reactive metal.
  • It is commonly used for galvanization to protect iron and steel from corrosion.
• Sodium
  • Sodium is also highly reactive, similar to potassium, and is part of the alkali metals group.
  • It reacts vigorously with water and oxygen and is used in various industrial processes.

The correct answer is Ductility.

Key Points

• Ductility is the property of a material that allows it to be drawn into thin wires.
• This property is most commonly observed in metals such as gold, silver, copper, and aluminum.
• Gold is known to be one of the most ductile metals, capable of being drawn into very fine wires.
• The measure of ductility is typically expressed as a percentage of elongation or the reduction of area in a tensile test.
• Ductility is essential for manufacturing processes like wire drawing and tube making.

Additional Information

• Malleability
  • Malleability is the ability of a material to be hammered or rolled into thin sheets without breaking.
  • Like ductility, malleability is a property of metals, allowing them to be shaped and formed.
  • Gold and silver are also highly malleable, making them useful for various industrial and jewelry applications.
• Tensile Strength
  • Tensile strength is the maximum amount of tensile stress that a material can withstand before failure.
  • It is an important property for materials that are used in structures and machines.
  • High tensile strength materials are often also ductile, but this is not always the case.
• Brittleness
  • Brittleness is the tendency of a material to break or shatter without significant deformation when under stress.
  • Brittle materials, like glass, ceramics, and some polymers, have low ductility and malleability.
  • These materials are often used where high hardness and low deformability are required.
• Plasticity
  • Plasticity is the ability of a material to undergo permanent deformation without breaking.
  • This property is crucial for processes such as forging, molding, and stamping.
  • Metals and polymers typically exhibit high plasticity.

The correct answer is Aluminium.

Key Points

• Aluminium reacts with steam to form aluminium oxide and hydrogen gas.
• It does not react with cold or hot water due to the formation of a protective oxide layer on its surface.
• The reaction of aluminium with steam is represented by the equation: 2Al + 3H₂O (steam) → Al₂O₃ + 3H₂.
• This property distinguishes aluminium from more reactive metals such as sodium and potassium, which react vigorously with cold water.
• Aluminium's reactivity with steam but not with liquid water is crucial in various industrial applications, including metallurgy and manufacturing.

Additional Information

• Reactivity Series of Metals
  • It is a series of metals arranged in order of their reactivity from highest to lowest.
  • It helps predict how metals will react with water, acids, and other substances.
  • Highly reactive metals like potassium and sodium react with cold water, while less reactive metals like aluminium react only with steam.
• Oxide Layer Formation
  • Aluminium forms a thin, protective oxide layer when exposed to air.
  • This layer prevents further reaction with water and air, making it corrosion-resistant.
  • This property is utilized in industries to prevent rusting and degradation of aluminium products.
• Hydrogen Gas Production
  • When metals react with water or steam, hydrogen gas is often produced.
  • Hydrogen gas is highly flammable and must be handled with care in industrial settings.
  • The production of hydrogen gas is an important factor in reactions involving metals and water.
• Industrial Applications
  • Aluminium's selective reactivity is exploited in processes like the extraction of aluminium from bauxite ore.
  • It is also used in manufacturing processes where controlled reactions are required.
  • Understanding metal reactivity is crucial for safe and efficient industrial operations.

The correct answer is Copper.

Key Points

• Copper is known for its excellent resistance to corrosion in moist air, primarily due to the formation of a protective layer of copper oxide on its surface.
• Copper's corrosion resistance is superior to that of many other metals such as iron, magnesium, and zinc.
• This protective layer of copper oxide acts as a barrier, preventing further oxidation and corrosion.
• Copper's durability in various environmental conditions, including moist air, makes it a preferred material for plumbing, roofing, and electrical applications.

Additional Information

• Corrosion
  • Corrosion is the gradual destruction of materials, usually metals, by chemical and/or electrochemical reaction with their environment.
  • Common types of corrosion include rusting of iron, tarnishing of silver, and oxidation of copper.
• Protective Oxide Layer
  • Some metals, like aluminum and copper, form a protective oxide layer when exposed to air, which prevents further corrosion.
  • This phenomenon is known as passivation.
• Galvanic Corrosion
  • Occurs when two different metals are in electrical contact in a corrosive environment, leading to accelerated corrosion of the more anodic metal.
  • Using metals with similar electrochemical properties can help prevent galvanic corrosion.
• Copper Applications
  • Due to its corrosion resistance, copper is widely used in electrical wiring, plumbing, and roofing materials.
  • It is also used in marine environments and in the production of coins and decorative items.