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Multiple Choice
Which of the following substances reacts relatively slowly with oxygen?
A
Sodium (Na)
B
Iron (Fe)
C
Magnesium (Mg)
D
Gold (Au)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that the question is about the relative reactivity of metals with oxygen, which is related to their tendency to oxidize or form oxides.
Recall that alkali metals like Sodium (Na) react very quickly with oxygen because they are highly reactive and easily lose electrons to form oxides.
Recognize that transition metals like Iron (Fe) react with oxygen more slowly than alkali metals but still form oxides (rust) over time.
Note that alkaline earth metals like Magnesium (Mg) also react readily with oxygen, often burning with a bright flame to form magnesium oxide.
Identify that Gold (Au) is a noble metal, known for its very low reactivity and resistance to oxidation, which explains why it reacts relatively slowly with oxygen compared to the other metals listed.