Which one of the following elements is found in the free state in nature?
Which one of the following elements is found in the free state in nature?
Gold
Zinc
Iron
Sodium
The Correct Option is A
Solution and Explanation
To determine which element is found in the free state in nature, we must consider the reactivity and occurrence of each given element:
Zinc (Zn): Zinc is quite reactive and is typically found in nature as compounds, not in its elemental form. It usually exists as sulfides or carbonates.
Gold (Au): Gold is a noble metal, known for its low reactivity, which allows it to be found in nature in its elemental or free state. It is typically found as nuggets or dust in alluvial deposits.
Iron (Fe): Iron is prone to oxidation and is almost always found in ores like hematite or magnetite, not in its free state.
Sodium (Na): Sodium is highly reactive, especially with water, and is never found in its elemental form in nature. It is primarily found as compounds, such as halite (sodium chloride).
Conclusion: Among the given options, Gold is the element that naturally occurs in the free state.
Therefore, the correct option is: Gold.
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Concepts Used:
Classification of Elements & Periodicity in Properties
Since many elements were being discovered in the 19th century and the study of these elements individually was proving difficult, classification of elements was made necessary.
Classification by Johann Dobereiner - German chemist Johann Dobereiner classified certain elements on the basis of their similar properties in the groups of continuing - three elements each. These groups were called ‘triads’. In every triad, the atomic weight of the middle element was equal to the average of the atomic weights of the first and third elements.
Newlands Law of Octaves - The elements were arranged in increasing order of their atomic weights and found that every 8th element shows similarity with the 1st element.
Mendeleev’s Periodic Table - The arrangement of all 63 elements in rows or columns in order of their atomic weight was made by Mendeleev. He left some space for corresponding elements in his periodic table which were not even discovered till then. Although he predicted the properties of those elements through his periodic classification of elements.
Modern Periodic Law - The properties of the elements of the modern periodic law are periodic functions of their atomic numbers.