Nature of Matter: Elements MCQs Quiz | Class 9
This quiz covers Unit I: Matter – Its Nature and Behaviour for Class IX Science (Code 086). The questions focus on the concept of elements, examples of metals and non-metals, and basic chemical symbols. Test your knowledge, submit your answers, and download the PDF solution sheet for offline revision.
Overview of Elements
An element is a pure substance that consists of only one type of atom. It cannot be broken down into simpler substances by any known physical or ordinary chemical means. Elements are the fundamental building blocks of matter.
Classification of Elements
Elements are broadly classified into three categories based on their properties:
- Metals: Generally hard, lustrous, malleable, ductile, and good conductors of heat and electricity. Examples: Iron, Copper, Gold. Note that Mercury is a metal but is liquid at room temperature.
- Non-metals: Generally soft (except diamond), brittle, non-lustrous, and poor conductors. They can be solids, liquids, or gases. Examples: Carbon, Oxygen, Sulfur. Bromine is the only liquid non-metal.
- Metalloids: These elements show properties intermediate between metals and non-metals. Examples: Boron, Silicon, Germanium.
Chemical Symbols
Elements are represented by symbols, usually derived from their English or Latin names. The first letter is always capitalized, while the second letter (if present) is small.
| Element | Latin Name | Symbol |
|---|---|---|
| Sodium | Natrium | Na |
| Potassium | Kalium | K |
| Iron | Ferrum | Fe |
| Gold | Aurum | Au |
| Silver | Argentum | Ag |
Key Points for Revision
- There are 118 known elements today; about 94 occur naturally.
- The majority of elements are solid at room temperature.
- Mercury and Bromine are liquids at room temperature.
- Gallium and Cesium have very low melting points and can melt on your palm.
Practice Questions
- Why is water not considered an element?
- Name a non-metal that is a good conductor of electricity. (Ans: Graphite)
- What is the symbol for Lead? (Ans: Pb from Plumbum)
- Identify the metalloid: Carbon, Silicon, or Calcium. (Ans: Silicon)
- Which element is the most abundant in the Earth’s crust? (Ans: Oxygen)
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