Which of the following metals is found in nature in its natural state?

The Correct answer is Au and Ag.

Key Points

• Gold (Au) and Silver (Ag) are among the few metals that are found in their natural or native state in nature.
• These metals are known as noble metals because they are resistant to corrosion and oxidation in moist air.
• Gold is often found in its pure form as nuggets or grains in rocks, in veins, and in alluvial deposits.
• Silver is also found in its native form, as an alloy with gold (electrum), and in minerals like argentite and chlorargyrite.
• Both metals have been used since ancient times for jewelry, coinage, and art due to their luster and rarity.

 Additional Information

• Cu (Copper)
  • Copper is rarely found in its native form but can occur naturally in large masses.
  • It is more commonly found in minerals such as chalcopyrite, bornite, and malachite.
  • Copper has been extensively used in electrical wiring, plumbing, and the manufacture of alloys like bronze and brass.
• Zn (Zinc)
  • Zinc is not found in its native form and is typically extracted from minerals such as sphalerite (zinc sulfide).
  • Zinc is used for galvanizing iron and steel to prevent rusting, and in making alloys like brass.