Question

Germanium (Ge) is

• A. a metal
• B. an alloy
• C. a non-metal
• D. a metalloid

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

To solve the problem, we need to understand the historical context of the discovery of elements and the concept of "eka-elements."

1. Understanding Eka-Elements:
The term "eka-element" was used by chemists in the 19th century to predict the existence of undiscovered elements based on their expected properties and positions in the periodic table. The prefix "eka-" (meaning "one" in Sanskrit) was used to denote an element that would occupy a position one place below a known element.

2. Eka-Aluminium:
Eka-Aluminium refers to the element predicted to be located directly below aluminum ($\text{Al}$) in the periodic table. According to Mendeleev's periodic table, which was developed in the late 19th century, the element below aluminum should have similar chemical properties but with increased atomic mass.

3. Discovery of Gallium:
In 1875, the French chemist Paul Émile Lecoq de Boisbaudran discovered the element gallium ($\text{Ga}$). Gallium was found to fit perfectly into the position predicted for Eka-Aluminium in Mendeleev's periodic table. It has similar chemical properties to aluminum, such as being a soft metal with a low melting point, and it occupies the same group (Group 13) as aluminum.

4. Analyzing the Options:
- (1) Scandium: Incorrect. Scandium is a transition metal and does not belong to Group 13.
- (2) Gallium: Correct. Gallium was discovered in the place of Eka-Aluminium and fits the predicted properties.
- (3) Germanium: Incorrect. Germanium is a metalloid and belongs to Group 14, not Group 13.
- (4) Boron: Incorrect. Boron is a nonmetal and belongs to Group 13 but is above aluminum, not below it.

5. Conclusion:
The element discovered in the place of Eka-Aluminium is gallium ($\text{Ga}$).

Final Answer: $ {2} $