Questions and Answers
Which type of element is typically a good conductor of heat and electricity?
Alloys
What is a characteristic property of non-metals in terms of their appearance?
Brittle and non-lustrous
Which element is an exception to the usual state of metals being solids at room temperature?
Mercury
What distinguishes metals from non-metals in terms of their densities?
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Which property allows metals to be shaped and drawn into wires?
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What is a common application of non-metals?
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Study Notes
Metals and Non-metals
Metals and non-metals are two distinct categories of elements that exhibit unique physical and chemical properties. They are arranged in the periodic table in a specific manner, with metals on the left and non-metals on the right, separated by a zigzag line. This classification is based on the elements' properties, including their appearance, electrical conductivity, malleability, and solubility in water.
Metals
Metals are typically:
- Solids at room temperature, except for mercury, which is a liquid.
- Hard and lustrous, with a metallic appearance.
- Good conductors of heat and electricity.
- Malleable and ductile, meaning they can be shaped and drawn into wires.
- Generally have high melting and boiling points.
- Have high densities, making them heavier than non-metals.
Metals are used in a variety of applications, including the manufacture of automobiles, satellites, and kitchen utensils. Some common examples of metals include gold, silver, and copper.
Non-metals
Non-metals, on the other hand, are:
- Generally softer and non-lustrous, with a non-metallic appearance.
- Poor conductors of heat and electricity.
- Can be brittle and break when struck.
- Often have lower melting and boiling points than metals.
- Have low densities, making them lighter than metals.
Non-metals include elements like oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen. They are used in various applications, such as in the formation of compounds and as components of materials.
In summary, metals and non-metals differ in their physical and chemical properties, which are reflected in their placement in the periodic table. Metals tend to be hard, lustrous, good conductors of heat and electricity, and are solids at room temperature, while non-metals are generally soft, non-lustrous, poor conductors of heat and electricity, and can exist in various states of matter. These differences have significant implications for the way these elements are used and the applications they find in various industries.
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