Physical Properties of Metals Nonmetals and Metalloids

Iron (Fe) is classified as a metal while Silicon (Si) is classified as a metalloid. Which physical property do these two elements most likely have in common? They both

• exist as gases at room temperature
• have a metallic shine or luster
• are brittle and shatter easily
• conduct electricity very well

A student is given a sample of an unknown substance. He is asked to determine if it is classified as a metal, a metalloid, or a nonmetal. He discovered that the unknown element conducted some heat and electricity, had a shiny luster, and broke easily. This element is most likely a 

• metal
• nonmetal
• metalloid
• cannot be determined

Which table below correctly lists the properties of metals and nonmetals? *

• A
• B
• C
• D

Which of the following is a property of a non-metal?

• Conducts electricity and heats well
• Can be hammered into thin sheets
• Is brittle and breaks easily
• Has a shiny, metallic luster

All of the following are properties used to classify elements as metals, non-metals, and metalloids EXCEPT —

• texture
• conductivity
• luster
• malleability

These items are on the right side of the Periodic Table.

• Metals
• Metalloids
• Nonmetals

A student tested the conductivity of four elements using an incomplete electrical circuit. When the element is placed in the circuit, the bulb lights up brightly, lights up dimly, or does not light up at all based on the element’s ability to conduct electricity. The table below shows the results of her investigation. Based on the results of the conductivity test, which element is classified as a metal? 

• Hydrogen
• Arsenic
• Krypton
• Copper

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-2

What physical properties are used to classify elements as metals, non-metals, or metalloids?

• Color, smell, physical state
• Reactivity, streak, hardness
• Ability to burn, mass, density
• Luster, conductivity, malleability

The elements argon, krypton, and xenon are all non-metals. What property would these elements have in common?

• Good conductor of thermal energy
• Poor conductor of electricity
• Shiny, lustrous surface
• Soft and malleable

Which of the following correctly lists the three main groups of elements from greatest conductivity to least conductivity?

• Nonmetals -metalloids-metals
• metals-nonmetals-metalloids
• metalloids-metals-nonmetals
• metals-metalloids-nonmetals