WAEC 2010 Chemistry · Question 12

Which of the following metals exists as liquid at ordinary temperature?

Options

A.Copper
B.Gold
C.Mercury
D.Silver

Answer: C. Mercury

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Step 1: Analyze the question You're asked which metal is a liquid at ordinary (room) temperature, about 25°C. Step 2: The concept Most metals are solids at room temperature because of strong metallic bonding, which gives them high melting points. A metal is liquid at room temperature only if its melting point is below about 25°C. Step 3: Check each option | Metal | Melting point | State at room temperature | |---|---|---| | Copper | about 1085°C | Solid | | Gold | about 1064°C | Solid | | Mercury | about -39°C | Liquid | | Silver | about 962°C | Solid | Mercury melts at -39°C, well below room temperature, so it is liquid under ordinary conditions. The others need very high temperatures to melt. Step 4: Answer The correct option is C. Mercury. Why is mercury different? Its electrons are held very tightly to the nucleus, so the atoms bond weakly to one another. This is why mercury was used in thermometers and barometers. Exam tip: Remember that mercury is the only common metal that is liquid at room temperature. Its symbol, Hg, comes from the Latin hydrargyrum, meaning "liquid silver." Bromine is the only liquid non-metal at room temperature, and WASSCE and JAMB often ask about the two together.

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