Question

Which of the following is most elastic in the language of physics?
A. Air
B. Hydrogen
C. Water
D. Mercury

Answer 1

To answer this question, we first need to understand what elasticity is.Elasticity is the ability of a body to resist a distorting influence and to revert to its original size and shape when that influence or force is removed in physics and materials science. When sufficient weights are applied to solid objects, they will deform; if the material is elastic, the object will return to its original shape and size following removal.

Complete answer:
Elastic nature: For different materials, the physical reasons for elastic behavior might be quite varied. When forces are applied to metals, the atomic lattice changes size and shape (energy is added to the system). The lattice returns to its original lower energy state when forces are eliminated. Elasticity is created by the stretching of polymer chains when forces are applied to rubbers and other polymers.

According to Hooke's law, the force required to distort elastic objects should be proportional to the deformation distance, regardless of how large that distance develops. This is known as perfect elasticity, which states that no matter how strongly an object is deformed, it will return to its original shape. This is simply an ideal concept; in actuality, most materials with elasticity are only fully elastic up to extremely minor deformations, after which plastic (permanent) deformation takes place.

Mercury is an atomic number 80 chemical element with the symbol Hg. It was previously known as hydrargyrum and is now known as quicksilver. Mercury is a heavy, silvery d-block element that is the only metallic element that is liquid at standard temperatures and pressures; the only other element that is liquid at these temperatures and pressures is the halogen bromine, though metals like cesium, gallium, and rubidium melt just above room temperature.

Elastic materials are those that restore their shape and size after being stretched. Mercury is the most elastic material, according to physics. So, we can conclude that mercury is the most elastic material among the given options.

Hence, the final answer is option D.

Note: Plasticity, also known as plastic deformation, is the ability of a solid material to undergo persistent deformation, or a non-reversible change of shape in response to applied forces, in physics and materials science. Plasticity can be seen in a solid piece of metal being bent or pounded into a new shape because permanent changes occur within the material.