Question

select the correct answer.
a 46.9 gram sample of a substance has a volume of about 3.5 centimeters³. it is solid at a room temperature of 23°c. out of the four substances whose properties are given, which is the most likely identity of this substance?

substance	density (g/cm³)	melting point (°c)	boiling point (°c)
mercury	13.53	-39	357
hafnium	13.31	2,233	4,603
lead	11.34	327	1,749

a. molybdenum
b. mercury
c. hafnium
d. lead

Explanation:

Step1: Calculate the density of the sample

The density formula is $
ho=\frac{m}{V}$, where $m = 46.9$ g and $V=3.5$ cm³. So, $
ho=\frac{46.9}{3.5}=13.4$ g/cm³.

Step2: Compare with given densities

We compare the calculated density 13.4 g/cm³ with the densities of the substances in the table. The density of hafnium is 13.31 g/cm³, which is closest to 13.4 g/cm³. Also, since the substance is solid at 23°C, mercury is ruled out as its melting - point is - 39°C (it would be liquid at 23°C). Molybdenum and lead have densities that are not as close as hafnium's density to the calculated value.

Answer:

C. hafnium