Question

It is easier to cut sodium with a knife than calcium metal because?a). sodium atoms in the metal are rather soft.b). calcium atoms in the metal are rather strong.c). sodium has atoms that are not closely parked.d). sodium has a weaker metallic bond.

Answer 1

Chemistry => Matter and Change => Physical Properties

The ease with which we can cut a required substance depends on how hard it is. The hardness depends on the crystalline structure and the elasticity of the substance. The more atoms there are per unit volume, it can be said that a substance is harder and it will be more difficult to cut it.

So one explanation for sodium to be easier to cut is that its atoms are further apart and there is less quantity per unit volume compared to calcium.

Therefore, the answer will be:

c) Sodium has atoms that are not closely parked.