Question from 2008 hsc past paper (1 Viewer)

[2ndt0m3h]

Hi i just answering this question from the 2008 physics hsc paper:

Compare how electric current is conducted through samples of germanium at room
temperature, mercury at room temperature and mercury at 3 K (T for mercury c
is 4.2 K).

When is reading the sample answer it stated that mercury at room temperature is a metal. Just want to confirm that if stating is it a liquid-metal at room temperature is quivalent. Also if anyone is bothered to give answer the question feel free to.

 

[Squar3root]

basically what it is saying "how well do each of these situations do it"

so Ge straight up - not so good (relatively)
Hg at RT - not so good (relatively)
Hg at Tc - very good because it is a superconductor (and explain why superconductors are good at conducting electricity. HINT: it is in the name SUPER-conductor)

but to answer your questions; probs doesn't matter - when i first read it i couldn't tell the difference