Explanation

• The smallest unit of matter is an atom.

Structure of an Atom

• Nucleus: The central part made of heavy protons and neutrons.
• Electrons: Tiny, light particles that circle the nucleus.
• Protons: Particles with a positive charge.
• Neutrons: Particles with no electrical charge

Explanation

• Mercury is the only elemental metal that at room temperature is Liquid.
• Mercury (Hg) is the only metal that remains liquid at room temperature (about 25°C).

Additional information:

• Chemical Symbol: Hg
• Atomic Number: 80
• Melting Point: −38.83°C
• Boiling Point: 356.73°C

Last verified on 20-07-2026

Explanation

• Lead pencil is made up of graphite.
• Graphite is a form (allotrope) of carbon.
• It is soft and leaves marks on paper easily.
• It is used in pencils because of its slippery layered structure.
• Despite the name “lead pencil,” it contains no real lead.
• Graphite was named by Abraham Gottlob Werner in 1789.

Last verified on 21-06-2026

Explanation

• Diamond is a naturally occurring allotropic form of carbon.
• Allotropy means a single element can exist in more than one form with different structures and properties.
• It is extremely hard.
• It has a high melting point.
• It is widely used in jewelry and cutting tools.

Additional information:

• Graphite – soft, good conductor
• Fullerenes (C60) – spherical molecules
• Carbon nanotubes – tubular, high strength
• Amorphous carbon – coal, soot
• Lonsdaleite – hexagonal diamond

Last verified on 17-01-2026

Explanation

• Zinc is commonly used in toothpaste.
• Because it helps reduce bacterial growth and controls bad breath.
• Zinc compounds (like zinc citrate or zinc chloride) kill or inhibit oral bacteria.
• It also helps reduce plaque formation.
• This improves overall oral hygiene.

Last verified on 14-06-2026