Which one of the following metals does not react with oxygen directly?

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UPSC CAPF – 2023

Platinum (Pt) is a noble metal known for its low reactivity. It does not react directly with oxygen under normal conditions (room temperature). While it can form oxides under extreme conditions or indirectly, direct oxidation like rusting of iron or tarnishing of silver does not occur easily.

Noble metals, such as Platinum, Gold (Au), and Silver (Ag), are resistant to oxidation and corrosion, which is why they are considered precious metals. Titanium (Ti), Iron (Fe), and Zinc (Zn) are reactive metals that readily react with oxygen to form stable oxides. Titanium forms a passive oxide layer that protects it from further corrosion, but the reaction with oxygen does occur. Iron readily forms rust (iron oxides/hydroxides). Zinc forms a protective layer of zinc oxide/carbonate.

The reactivity of metals with oxygen generally decreases across the periodic table from left to right and down within a group. Noble metals are found towards the right side of the d-block and have high ionization energies and positive standard electrode potentials, making them less likely to lose electrons and react with oxidizing agents like oxygen.

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