Question

Elements which readily form metallic bonds is----------

• A. Siderophile
• B. Lithophile
• C. Atmophile
• D. Biophile

Hint:

Remember the Greek root meanings:
- Sideros = Iron (Metallic/Siderophile - A).
- Lithos = Stone (Silicate/Lithophile - B).
- Atmos = Vapor (Gas/Atmophile - C).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Goldschmidt's geochemical classification categorizes chemical elements based on their preferred affinity and bonding behavior in planetary environments.
The groups include lithophile, siderophile, chalcophile, and atmophile elements.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze each of Goldschmidt's groups:
- Siderophile (Iron-loving) elements (A): These elements have a strong affinity for metallic iron and readily form metallic bonds.
They have low affinity for oxygen and sulfur, and tend to concentrate in the metallic core of the Earth.
Examples include Iron (\(\text{Fe}\)), Cobalt (\(\text{Co}\)), Nickel (\(\text{Ni}\)), and platinum-group metals (Ru, Rh, Pd, Os, Ir, Pt).
Thus, (A) is correct.
- Lithophile (Rock-loving) elements (B): These elements have a strong affinity for oxygen and form ionic or covalent bonds with oxygen and silica.
They concentrate in the silicate crust and mantle of the Earth.
Examples include Al, Si, Ca, Mg, K, and Na.
- Chalcophile (Ore-loving) elements: These elements have a strong affinity for sulfur and form covalent sulfide minerals (e.g., Cu, Zn, Pb, Ag).
- Atmophile (Gas-loving) elements (C): These elements are highly volatile and concentrate in the atmosphere (e.g., H, N, Noble gases).
- Biophile elements (D): These elements are essential constituents of living organisms (e.g., C, H, O, N, P).

Step 3: Final Answer:
Siderophile elements are those which readily form metallic bonds.