Question

a geochemist examines a piece of metal that he found in the soil. he performs tests to identify the metal from its density, electrical conductivity, and melting point. which statement best describes his investigation? he is identifying the metal using physical properties only. he is identifying the metal using chemical properties only. he is identifying the metal using physical properties and chemical properties. he is identifying the metal using neither physical properties or chemical properties.

Explanation:

Physical properties are characteristics of a substance that can be observed or measured without changing the substance's chemical composition. Density, electrical conductivity, and melting point are all physical properties. Chemical properties involve a substance's ability to undergo a chemical change. Since the geochemist is only using physical properties (density, electrical conductivity, melting point) to identify the metal, not chemical reactions or changes.

Answer:

He is identifying the metal using physical properties only.