Metals, Nonmetals, and Metalloids

Match each term to the correct definition. Elements that are typically dull, brittle, and poor conductors

• Element

• Elements that have properties of both metals and nonmetals

• Metals

• A characteristic that is observed or measured without changing the substance

• Nonmetals

• A pure substance that is composed of the same type of atom throughout

• Metalloids

• Elements that are typically dull, brittle, and poor conductors

• Physical property

• Elements that are typically solid, shiny, malleable, and good conductors

Label the image of the Periodic Table of Elements.

a

b

c

Metals

Nonmetals

Metalloids

Label the images.

a

b

c

Conductivity

Malleability

Luster

A student was testing the physical properties of an unknown element in the lab. Which three physical properties would be the most useful in determining the element’s identity, and how could he test them?

Answer explanation

• Conductivity - To test this, you could set up a circuit and see if the element can light a light bulb. If it does, it is a good conductor; if it doesn’t, it is a poor conductor.

• Malleability - To test this, you would see if the object easily broke apart when hit with a hammer. If it does, it is brittle; if it stays together, it is malleable.

• Luster - To test this, you use a flashlight to see if the element reflects light. If it does, it is shiny; if it doesn’t, it is dull.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-4

NGSS.MS-PS3-4

Rare Earth elements are found in which part of the Periodic Table, and what are they commonly used for in our everyday lives?

Answer explanation

Rare Earth elements are metals and are found in group 3 and in period 6 (known as the lanthanide series). The elements are commonly used in items such as rechargeable batteries (electric cars), computers, monitors, flatscreen TVs, digital cameras, LED lights, & smartphones.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-3

Which 5 of the choices in this list are physical properties of metals?

Answer explanation

A, H, N, P, U

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS3-3

Which 5 of the choices listed are physical properties of nonmetals?

Answer explanation

D, I, K, R, T

Which 4 of the choices listed are physical properties of metalloids?

Answer explanation

B, G, L, S

Which 3 of the choices listed are physical properties of Rare Earth Elements?

Answer explanation

C, F, Q

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-4

Match the metal type with its importance.

• Metals

• Used in many high-tech devices

• Rare Earth Element

• Used for essentials of life like fertilizer, medicine, & disinfectant

• Nonmetal

• Used in buildings, coins, & electric wiring

• Metalloid

• Used as semiconductors