What type of finish is achieved by scratching bare metal with an abrasive material until high gloss is obtained?

The correct finish achieved by scratching bare metal with an abrasive material until a high gloss is obtained is known as a polished finish. This process involves using various abrasives to remove imperfections and create a smooth, reflective surface. The polishing process enhances the natural luster of the metal and is often used in applications where a shiny appearance is desired.

While a brushed finish involves a different technique where fine lines are created on the surface of the metal to give it a matte appearance, the polished finish specifically refers to that high-gloss outcome. The matte finish, in contrast, is characterized by a non-reflective surface, resulting from different treatment methods. An electroplated finish involves coating the metal with a layer of another metal through an electrochemical process, which is unrelated to polishing. Thus, the polished finish signifies the highest gloss achieved through the abrasive method, distinguishing it from the other options provided.