In the following question, a statement of assertion followed by a statement of reason is given. Choose the correct answer out of the following choices:

Assertion : Iron is found in the free state in nature.

Reason: Iron is highly reactive element.

Assertion is false but the reason is true.

The correct answer is option 4. Assertion is false but the reason is true.

Let us break down the statement and reason further to understand why option 4 is the correct answer.

Assertion: Iron is found in the free state in nature. This statement is incorrect. Here's why:

Free state: In chemistry, a free state refers to an element existing by itself, not chemically combined with other elements.

Iron's Reactivity: Iron is a very reactive metal. It readily combines with oxygen (from the air) and other elements in its environment to form compounds. These compounds are more stable than pure iron by itself.

Reason: Iron is highly reactive element. This statement is true. Iron does tend to react with other elements because:

Outer Electrons: Iron has electrons in its outer shell that it can easily lose or share during reactions. This makes it susceptible to forming bonds with other elements.

Stability: When iron reacts, it forms more stable chemical bonds with other elements, achieving a lower energy state.

While the reason (iron's reactivity) is true, it doesn't explain why iron would be found in its free state (which is the assertion). In fact, iron's reactivity is the very reason it's not found alone in nature. It constantly seeks to form more stable compounds with other elements.