Which is the most malleable and ductile metal?

Options

A. Gold
B. Lead
C. Lithium
D. Sodium

Answer

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Understanding Malleability and Ductility:**
- Malleability refers to the ability of a metal to be deformed or shaped under compressive stress, such as hammering. A malleable metal can be easily shaped into sheets.
- Ductility, on the other hand, is the ability of a metal to be stretched into a wire. A ductile metal can be drawn out into thin wires without breaking.

2. **Identifying the Metals:**
- The options given are gold, lead, lithium, and sodium. We need to evaluate these metals based on their malleability and ductility.

3. **Evaluating Each Metal:**
- **Gold:** Known for its exceptional malleability and ductility. It can be hammered into very thin sheets and drawn into fine wires.
- **Lead:** While it is malleable, it is not as ductile as gold.
- **Lithium and Sodium:** These are alkali metals and are not known for high malleability or ductility compared to gold.

4. **Conclusion:**
- Among the given options, gold is the most malleable and ductile metal. It can be shaped and stretched more easily than the other metals listed.

5. **Final Answer:**
- The most malleable and ductile metal is **gold**.

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