Question

Which of the following metals is found in the free state?

• A. Sodium
• B. Platinum
• C. Iron
• D. Aluminium

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Platinum

Explanation for correct option:

(B) Platinum:

• Metals are found in nature both in the free and combined state.
• Platinum, gold, silver, and copper are some of the metals found in the free state.
• The reason for their occurrence in the free state is that they are less reactive.

Explanation for incorrect options:

(A) Sodium: Sodium is a reactive element and it is present in a combined form such as sodium chloride($\mathrm{NaCl}$)

(C) Iron: iron is also a reactive element and is present in the form of hematite(${\mathrm{Fe}}_2{\mathrm{O}}_3$), magnetite (${\mathrm{Fe}}_3{\mathrm{O}}_4$), etc.

(D) Aluminium: Aluminium is usually found in the form of bauxite and cryolite.

Therefore, option (B) is the correct answer.