Metals, Non-Metals & Metalloids

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What are metals?

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Metals are elements that are typically shiny, good conductors of heat and electricity, malleable, and ductile. Examples include iron, copper, and gold.

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What are non-metals?

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Non-metals are elements that are usually dull, brittle, and poor conductors of heat and electricity. Examples include sulfur, oxygen, and carbon.

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What are metalloids?

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Metalloids are elements that have properties of both metals and non-metals. They can be semiconductors, which means they can conduct electricity better than non-metals but not as well as metals. Examples include silicon and arsenic.

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What is conductivity?

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Conductivity is the ability of a material to conduct heat or electricity. Metals are good conductors, while non-metals are poor conductors.

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What is malleability?

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Malleability is the ability of a material to be hammered or pressed into thin sheets without breaking. Metals are generally malleable.

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What is luster?

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Luster refers to the way a surface reflects light. Metals typically have a shiny luster, while non-metals do not.

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What is brittleness?

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Brittleness is the tendency of a material to break or shatter easily when force is applied. Non-metals are often brittle.

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What is the difference between metals and non-metals in terms of physical properties?

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Metals are usually shiny, ductile, malleable, and good conductors, while non-metals are dull, brittle, and poor conductors.

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What is an example of a good conductor of heat?

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Metals, such as copper and aluminum, are good conductors of heat.

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What is an example of a non-metal?

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An example of a non-metal is oxygen, which is essential for respiration.