Question

Which of the following statements regarding amalgam is true?

Statement 1:It is an alloy of mercury.

Statement 2:It is an alloy of tin and lead.

1. Only 1
2. Only 2
3. Both 1 & 2.
4. Neither 1 nor 2.

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 1 : Only 1

The correct answer is Only 1.

• An amalgam is an alloy of mercury with another metal.
• Depending upon the proportion of mercury, it may be a liquid, a soft paste or a solid.
• Nearly all metals can form amalgams with mercury.
• The well-known exceptions are iron, platinum, tungsten, and tantalum.

• Arquerite is a natural amalgam of silver and mercury.
• Sodium amalgam is formed as a byproduct of the chloralkali process.
• Tin amalgam was once used as a reflective mirror coating.