Question

What tests would you most likely perform to determine the identity of an unknown solid?

option A: Conductivity

option B: Density

option C: Boiling point option

D: Reactivity

Answer 1

All of them.

Conductivity can tell you whether it is a metal or a non-metal. Metals are conductors, non-metals are not. The only exception is graphite, which is a non-metal that conducts.

Boiling point can tell you about the strength of the interparticle forces present and thus about the type of solid it is.

Different solids have different densities, therefore can help in the identification of the unknown solid.

Finally, reactivity sheds light on the chemical nature of the solid and thus help identify the unknown.