Question

Which one is harder a sample of 24-carat gold or a sample of 22-carat gold?

Answer 1

1. The purity of gold is expressed in terms of “carats”. A carat of gold is equal to 24 mass units of the metal. Pure gold is very soft and therefore, it is unsuitable for making jewellery. Hence, it is mixed with other metals for making jewellery.
2. 24-carat gold is the purest form of gold. It does not contain any mixture. On the other hand, 22-carat gold contains other metal constituents in it. Due to this, it is harder than the pure 24-carat gold.
3. Hence, the sample of 22-carat gold is harder than the 24-carat gold sample.