Properties of Metals and Non-Metals

Describe three key physical properties of metals and three key physical properties of non-metals.

When a metal reacts with oxygen, it forms a metal oxide. Write a balanced equation for the reaction between magnesium and oxygen, and describe the appearance of the magnesium oxide produced.

What would the pH of the solution be when magnesium oxide is added to water?

How do metals and non-metals form ions? Provide an example of an ionic bond formed between a metal and a non-metal.

Explain how the atomic structure of metals (such as sodium) differs from that of non-metals (such as chlorine) and how this relates to their position in the periodic table.

Why do metals tend to lose electrons to form positive ions, while non-metals tend to gain electrons to form negative ions?

Explain why sodium (Na) is in Group 1 and Period 3, and how its electron arrangement supports this.

Compare the bonding in ionic compounds, simple molecules, and giant covalent structures by describing their nature, arrangement of atoms, and physical properties. Use sodium chloride (NaCl), oxygen (O₂), and diamond (C) in your answer.