Question 4 • 26-27 - C - RUSD Chemistry in the Earth System
A geochemist examines a piece of metal that he found in the soil. He performs tests to identify the metal from its density, electrical conductivity, and melting point. Which statement best describes his investigation?
Answer
A
He is identifying the metal using neither physical properties or chemical properties.
B
He is identifying the metal using physical properties and chemical properties.
C
He is identifying the metal using chemical properties only.
D
He is identifying the metal using physical properties only.
Explanation
Density, electrical conductivity, and melting point are physical properties: they can be measured without changing the metal into a different substance. Since all three tests use physical properties, the geochemist is identifying the metal using physical properties only.
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