Askiitians Tutor Team
Last Activity: 5 Months ago
The term "noble metals" refers to a group of metals that are resistant to corrosion and oxidation in moist air. Among these, platinum, palladium, and iridium are often highlighted due to their unique properties. The correct answer to your question is (D) They are inert towards many common reagents. Let’s delve deeper into why this is the case and what makes these metals so special.
Characteristics of Noble Metals
Noble metals are characterized by their remarkable resistance to chemical reactions. This means they do not easily react with acids or bases, which is a significant factor in their classification. Here’s a closer look at the properties that define noble metals:
- Corrosion Resistance: Noble metals do not tarnish or corrode easily, making them ideal for various applications, including jewelry and electronics.
- High Melting Points: These metals typically have high melting points, which allows them to maintain their integrity under extreme conditions.
- Conductivity: They are excellent conductors of electricity, which is why they are often used in electrical contacts and connectors.
Why Inertness Matters
The inertness of noble metals towards many common reagents is a crucial aspect of their utility. For example, while many metals will react with acids, noble metals like platinum and palladium remain unaffected. This property is particularly valuable in chemical reactions where stability is essential.
Examples of Noble Metals
To illustrate, let’s consider each of the metals mentioned:
- Platinum: Known for its catalytic properties, platinum is widely used in catalytic converters in vehicles, helping to reduce harmful emissions.
- Palladium: This metal is also used in catalytic converters and is essential in various electronic components due to its excellent conductivity.
- Iridium: Iridium is one of the most corrosion-resistant metals and is often used in high-temperature applications and in making spark plugs.
Other Options Explained
Let’s briefly examine the other options to clarify why they are not correct:
- (A) Alfred Nobel discovered them: This is a misconception. Alfred Nobel is known for inventing dynamite and establishing the Nobel Prizes, not for discovering these metals.
- (B) They are shining, lustrous, and pleasing to look at: While it’s true that noble metals have a shiny appearance, this aesthetic quality is not the reason they are classified as noble.
- (C) They are found in native state: Although noble metals can be found in their native state, this characteristic is not exclusive to them and does not define their nobility.
Final Thoughts
In summary, the classification of platinum, palladium, and iridium as noble metals primarily stems from their chemical inertness towards many common reagents. This property, along with their other characteristics, makes them invaluable in various industrial and technological applications. Understanding these distinctions helps appreciate the role of noble metals in both nature and technology.
