Correct Option
To determine the correct sequence in decreasing order of density, the approximate standard densities of the substances are considered:
- Gold: Approximately 19.3 g/cm³
- Mercury: Approximately 13.6 g/cm³
- Steel: Approximately 7.85 g/cm³
Based on these values, the correct decreasing order of density is Gold > Mercury > Steel.
Incorrect Options
Option (a) Steel > Mercury > Gold: This sequence is incorrect. Steel has a lower density than both mercury and gold.
Option (c) Steel > Gold > Mercury: This sequence is incorrect. Gold is denser than both steel and mercury, and mercury is denser than steel.
Option (d) Gold > Steel > Mercury: This sequence is incorrect. Steel is less dense than mercury, making the order Gold > Steel > Mercury inaccurate.