NECOChemistryAtomic Structure

Element 'Au' is:

ASilver
BGoldCORRECT
CAluminium
DArgon
AI
Toasta AI Explanation
Why the answer is B, and why the others tempt you.
**The reasoning** The symbol 'Au' comes from the Latin word *Aurum*, which means gold. In chemistry, many elements use symbols derived from their Latin or Greek names, not their English names. This is why gold = Au, not G. It's the universal language of chemistry — a scientist in Lagos and one in London both write Au for gold. You find this on the periodic table, atomic number 79. **Why the wrong options tempt you** - **Silver (A)** — Starts with 'S' in English, but its symbol is Ag (from Latin *Argentum*). The shiny, precious metal confusion! - **Aluminium (C)** — This one actually matches: Al for Aluminium. The 'A' might have drawn you here. - **Argon (D)** — Symbol is Ar. It's a noble gas, not a metal, but the 'A' similarity can confuse you under exam pressure. **Quick takeaway** Remember: **Au = Aurum = Gold** — link the Latin root to the symbol, and you'll never mix up precious metals again. When in doubt, think "Latin origins" for tricky symbols like Au, Ag, Fe, and Pb!
Want this in Pidgin, Yoruba, Igbo or Hausa? Sign up free →

Practice more Chemistry questions

NECO Chemistry has thousands more questions like this — with AI explanations on every one.