Question

mercurys natural state is where the atoms are close to each other but are still free to pass by each other. in which state(s) could mercury naturally exist? gas liquid solid or liquid solid or gas

Explanation:

To determine the state(s) mercury could naturally exist in, we analyze the particle arrangements of each state:

• In a gas, particles are far apart and move freely, so mercury can't be in gas state as the description says atoms are close.
• In a liquid, particles are close together and can slide past (pass by) each other, matching the given description of mercury's natural state.
• In a solid, particles are close but vibrate in fixed positions and can't pass by each other, so solid is not suitable.

So mercury's natural state (with atoms close but free to pass by) corresponds to the liquid state.

Answer:

B. liquid