Final answer:
By calculating the density of the metal block as 11.76 g/cm³ and noting it is non-magnetic, we can conclude that the metal is most likely gold, as it matches the closest to gold's properties among the given options.
Step-by-step explanation:
To solve the question, density must be calculated since the substance is not magnetic and we need to match the density to the given materials. Density (ρ) is mass (m) divided by volume (V), so:
ρ = m / V
Given the mass is 6 kg (6000 g) and the dimensions of the block are 10 cm × 12 cm × 4.25 cm, the volume is:
V = 10 × 12 × 4.25 = 510 cm³
Now, calculate the density:
ρ = 6000 g / 510 cm³ = 11.76 g/cm³
Considering the options and the properties given, we can rule out iron because it's magnetic. Aluminum has a density of 2.70 g/cm³, which is less than the calculated density. Copper has a higher density than aluminum but often has a reddish color and its density isn't as high as the calculated value. Gold's density is around 19 g/cm³ which is closer to our calculated value and gold is not magnetic. Although the calculated density doesn't exactly match the density of gold, it may be due to impurities or measurement inaccuracy. Therefore:
(a) 11.76 g/cm³; (b) It is likely gold due to its non-magnetic nature and density being closest to the density of gold among the given options.