Question

Which metal is most likely to be found in its native state?

1) iron
2) bronze
3) copper
4) aluminum

Answer 1

Copper is the metal most likely to be found in its native state due to its unique property of occurring in nature in a metallic form, unlike iron, bronze, and aluminum. The correct option is 3.

Step-by-step explanation:

The metal most likely to be found in its native state is copper. Unlike iron, which is typically found in oxidized forms such as rust (Fe₂O₃), copper can occur in nature in a directly usable metallic form or as native metal. This characteristic of copper led humans to use it very early in history.

Bronze and aluminum are not found in native form as they are alloys and compounds, respectively. Bronze, an alloy of copper and tin, and aluminum, which is most commonly extracted from bauxite ore, do not exist in elemental form in nature.

Hence, Option 3 is correct.