For 10 points, name this heavy transition metal with symbol Au.
Because it has the ability to dissolve this element, a mixture of nitric and hydrochloric acid was given the nickname "aqua regia," or "royal water." Ernest Rutherford proved the existence of the atomic nucleus using a thin foil of this (*) precious metal, which is found below silver on the periodic table. For 10 points, name this heavy transition metal with symbol Au.
Because it has the ability to dissolve this element, a mixture of nitric and hydrochloric acid was given the nickname "aqua regia," or "royal water."
gold (accept aurum; prompt on "Au" before it is read)