Question

Generally, metals are solid in nature. Which one of the following metals is found in a liquid state at room temperature?

• A. Na
• B. Fe
• C. Cr
• D. Hg

Answer 1

The correct option is D

Hg

The explanation for correct answer:

option(D) Mercury$\left(\mathrm{Hg}\right)$ :

1. Mercury is the only metal that is in a liquid state at room temperature.
2. It is a d-block element.
3. Mercury does not share its valence electrons with others because electrons in the mercury metal are tightly bonded by the nucleus and they exhibit relativistic effects.
4. Therefore, the electrons in mercury behave like they are bigger than the slow-moving electron and because of this weak bonding nature, Mercury shows a low melting point and low boiling point.
5. This Means Mercury requires very less energy to break the bond between mercury atoms.
6. Therefore, the metal which exists as a liquid at room temperature is mercury

The explanation for Incorrect answer-
Option(A) - Sodium$\left(\mathrm{Na}\right)$

1. Sodium is metal and is present in a solid state even at room temperature.
2. it can dissolve in water and generate fire spark.

Option(B) - Iron$\left(\mathrm{Fe}\right)$

1. Iron is present in nature itself in solid form.
2. It can be liquefied only at high temperatures but still, it turns into a solid form.

Option(C) - Chromium$\left(\mathrm{Cr}\right)$

1. Chromium is also a metal and is present in nature in solid form.

Hence, option (D) Mercury is a metal that is found in the liquid state at room temperature.