Chemistry : Metals And Non-Metals

Q 6 / 17

UPSC CSE Prelims 2005

Which one of the following is the correct sequence of the given substances in the decreasing order of their densities?

EXPLANATION

Correct Option

To determine the correct sequence in decreasing order of density, the approximate standard densities of the substances are considered:

  • Gold: Approximately 19.3 g/cm³
  • Mercury: Approximately 13.6 g/cm³
  • Steel: Approximately 7.85 g/cm³

Based on these values, the correct decreasing order of density is Gold > Mercury > Steel.

Incorrect Options

Option (a) Steel > Mercury > Gold: This sequence is incorrect. Steel has a lower density than both mercury and gold.

Option (c) Steel > Gold > Mercury: This sequence is incorrect. Gold is denser than both steel and mercury, and mercury is denser than steel.

Option (d) Gold > Steel > Mercury: This sequence is incorrect. Steel is less dense than mercury, making the order Gold > Steel > Mercury inaccurate.

SOURCENCERT Class 10 Science Chapter 3: Metals and Non-metals