O Levels Chemistry (5070)•5070/11/M/J/19

Explanation
Aluminum Meets All Criteria for Power Cables
Steps:
- Verify conductivity: Aluminum is a metal with free electrons, enabling high electrical conductivity (second to copper among common metals).
- Check density: Aluminum's density is 2.70 g/cm³, lower than copper's 8.96 g/cm³, making it relatively lightweight for cables.
- Assess oxidation resistance: Aluminum forms a thin, adherent Al₂O₃ layer that passivates the surface, preventing further aerial oxidation.
- Conclude: All three conditions are satisfied, matching option A.
Why A is correct:
- Aluminum's properties align with requirements: metallic conductivity for electricity, density <3 g/cm³ for low weight, and oxide layer per corrosion science for oxidation resistance.
Why the others are wrong:
- B: Ignores aluminum's proven oxidation resistance in power lines.
- C: Overlooks aluminum's low density advantage over alternatives like copper.
- D: Excludes aluminum's essential electrical conductivity as a metal.
Final answer: A
Topic: Uses of metals
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