Question

Which of the following is a metal?

• A. \( \text{Carbon} \)
• B. \( \text{Mercury} \)
• C. \( \text{Sulphur} \)
• D. \( \text{Iodine} \)

Hint:

\textbf{Properties of Metals.} Metals generally possess properties such as being lustrous, malleable, ductile, good conductors of heat and electricity, and are solid at room temperature (except for mercury). Recognizing these general properties helps in identifying metals from a list of elements.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Let's examine each of the given options to determine which one is a metal:
Carbon: Carbon is a non-metal. It exists in various allotropic forms like diamond, graphite, and fullerenes, all of which exhibit properties characteristic of non-metals.
Mercury: Mercury (Hg) is a chemical element that is a heavy, silvery-white liquid metal at standard temperature and pressure. It is unique as it is the only common metal that is liquid under these conditions.
Sulphur: Sulphur (S) is a non-metal. It is a yellow crystalline solid at room temperature and exhibits properties typical of non-metals.
Iodine: Iodine (I) is a non-metal belonging to the halogen group. It is a dark-purple solid at room temperature and sublimes to a violet gas. Based on these properties, Mercury is the only metal among the given options.