Question

The wrong statement about the interstitial compounds is

• A. They retain metallic conductivity
• B. They are chemically inert
• C. They are very hard
• D. Their bonds are neither ionic nor covalent
• E. Their melting points are lower than those of pure metals

Answer 1

Answer: (E)

Their melting points are lower than those of pure metals

Interstitial compounds are formed by a wide range of metals with hydrogen, boron, carbon, nitrogen and other elements. The invasion of interstitial sites does not significantly alter the metal structure.

It still looks like a metal, and still conducts heat and electricity. However, filling some of the holes has a considerable effect on the physical properties, particularly the hardness, malleability and ductility of the metal.

Interstitial compounds are extremely inert chemically, have high melting points and are extremely hard.

Hence, the correct option is $\text{E}$