2006-11-05 02:33:42 · 3 answers · asked by kennethblatchford 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
Because most metals are susceptible to oxidation, having low electronegativities, prefering to be in a cationic form vs. the neutral element. Only metals such as gold, which is resistant to oxidation, will be found pure in nature.
2006-11-05 02:42:36 · answer #1 · answered by TheOnlyBeldin 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Most metals exist as minerals because they can and nature seeks stability. there is stability for any substance when it has low energy. the substance seeks the lowest energy level possible to attain at the circumstances. thus molecules associate to form compounds so that they can liberate energy thereby lowering their energy. i remind you of certain elements like sulphur which tend to be in the native form because their native form itself is the lowest energy form attainable at that situation. and that is the basis for all chemical reactions... have you ever wondered why chemical reactions take place??? why should sodium and chlorine put together, react to give sodium chloride? its because sodium cholride is the least energy form attainable at the given situation.
2006-11-05 10:45:22 · answer #2 · answered by msrvnn 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
How can you be cooked in the molten cauldron of the earth's core and not make friends with some other elements ?
2006-11-05 10:55:06 · answer #3 · answered by hey_blue 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋