Interstitial compounds are formed when small atoms are trapped inside the crystal lattice of metals. Which of the following are the characteristic properties of interstitial compounds?
I. They have high melting points in comparison to pure metals.
II. They are very hard.
III. They retain metallic conductivity.
IV. They are chemically very reactive.

Options

A. They have high melting points in comparison to pure metals
B. They are very hard
C. They retain metallic conductivity
D. The are chemically very reactive

Answer

D

Explanation

Interstitial compounds are formed when small atoms are trapped inside the crystal lattice of metals. Some of their important characteristics are as follows
(i) They are very hard and rigid.
(ii) They have high melting point which are higher than those of the pure metals.
(iii) They show conductivity like that of the pure metal.
(iv) They acquire chemical inertness.