Match column I with column II and select the correct option using the given codes.
| Column I | Column II |
| :---------------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------------------------ |
| a. A metal that forms amphoteric oxides | (i) Ga |
| b. A metal which melts when kept on our palm | (ii) / M |
| C. A metal that reacts with nitric acid | (iii) AI |
| d. A metal which cannot displace hydrogen from acids | (iv) Mn |
A. $a =$ (ii), $b =$ (i), $c =$ (iii), $d =$ (iv)
B. $a =$ (iii), $b =$ (i), $c =$ (iv), $d =$ (ii)
C. $a=$ (iv), $b=$ (ii), $c=$ (iii), $d=$ (i)
D. $a =$ (iii), $b =$ (ii), $c =$ (j), $d =$ (iv)
Answer (1)
Aluminum (Al) forms amphoteric oxides, so a matches with (iii).
Gallium (Ga) melts when kept on our palm, so b matches with (i).
Manganese (Mn) reacts with nitric acid, so c matches with (iv).
Mercury (Hg) cannot displace hydrogen from acids, so d matches with (ii).
The correct option is B
Explanation
Analysis of the Problem Let's analyze the properties of the metals listed in Column II and match them with the descriptions in Column I.
Matching a a. A metal that forms amphoteric oxides: Amphoteric oxides are oxides that can act as both acids and bases. Aluminum (Al) is a well-known metal that forms amphoteric oxides ( A l 2 O 3 ). Therefore, a matches with (iii).
Matching b b. A metal which melts when kept on our palm: Gallium (Ga) has a very low melting point (around 29.8 °C or 85.6 °F), so it melts when held in the hand. Therefore, b matches with (i).
Matching c c. A metal that reacts with nitric acid: Manganese (Mn) reacts with nitric acid ( H N O 3 ). Therefore, c matches with (iv).
Matching d d. A metal which cannot displace hydrogen from acids: This refers to a metal that is less reactive than hydrogen. Mercury (Hg) is below hydrogen in the reactivity series and cannot displace hydrogen from acids. The symbol '/ M' seems to be a typo and should be Hg (Mercury). Therefore, d matches with (ii).
Final Matches Based on the above matches: a = (iii) Al b = (i) Ga c = (iv) Mn d = (ii) Hg
Conclusion Therefore, the correct option is B: a = (iii), b = (i), c = (iv), d = (ii).
Examples
Understanding the properties of metals, such as their ability to form amphoteric oxides or their melting points, is crucial in various real-world applications. For example, aluminum's amphoteric nature makes it useful in applications where it needs to resist corrosion in both acidic and basic environments, such as in packaging and construction. Gallium's low melting point is exploited in some high-temperature thermometers and in certain electronic applications. Knowing which metals react with acids is important in industrial processes and safety protocols to prevent unwanted reactions and corrosion. The reactivity series helps in understanding displacement reactions, which are fundamental in metallurgy for extracting metals from their ores.
