Question

Aluminium metal is:
(A) Magnetic substance
(B) Bad conductor of heat
(C) Good conductor of electricity
(D) Bad conductor of electricity

Answer 1

Hint
A metal is an element which makes metallic bonds and its atomic structure defines its properties. Its properties can be found by understanding the behaviour of the atomic particles of metal at room temperature when no force is present. Using these properties, we can determine whether aluminium is a good conductor or bad conductor and it has magnetic properties or not.

Complete step by step answer
A metal is an element that it forms positive ions i.e. cations and has metallic bonds. We know the electrical conductivity of matter is dependent upon the atomic structure of the material from which the conductor is made.
In any material, such as copper, the atoms which make the molecular structure are bound together. At room temperature, copper contains a minimum amount of heat energy. Since heat energy is a method of removing electrons from the orbits, copper will contain many numbers of free electrons that can move from atom to atom. When not under an external force, these electrons move in a zig-zag pattern within the conductor. This movement is the same in all directions so that electrons are not lost by any part of the conductor. When managed by an external force, the electrons move in the same direction. The effect of this movement is felt from one end of the conductor to the other. This electron’s movement is called an electric current.
Some metals are better conductors of electricity than others. Silver, gold, copper, and aluminium are materials with free electrons and make good conductors. Silver is the best conductor of electricity, followed by copper, gold, and aluminium.
Hence, Aluminium is a good conductor of electricity.
So, the correct option is (C).

Note
Aluminium is used where weight is a major consideration, such as in high-tension power lines, with long spans between supports. Gold is used where oxidation or corrosion is a consideration and a good conductivity is required. Copper is used more often than silver because of cost.