Question

a geochemist examines a piece of metal that he found in the soil. he performs tests to identify the metal from its density, electrical conductivity, and melting point. which statement best describes his investigation?

• he is identifying the metal using physical properties only.
• he is identifying the metal using chemical properties only.
• he is identifying the metal using physical properties and chemical properties.
• he is identifying the metal using neither physical properties or chemical properties.

Explanation:

Physical properties of a substance are characteristics that can be observed or measured without changing the substance's chemical identity. Density, electrical conductivity, and melting point all fit this definition—they do not involve altering the metal's chemical composition to measure or observe them. Chemical properties involve how a substance reacts with other substances, which are not being tested here.

Answer:

He is identifying the metal using physical properties only.