3.6. Metals vs Non-Metals Comparison

Metals are typically solid at room temperature, shiny, malleable, good conductors of heat and electricity, and make a sound when struck.

Nonmetals are often found in a gaseous state, are soft and crumbly, poor conductors of heat and electricity, and don't make a metallic sound.

Metallic properties become stronger as you move down a group on the periodic table, like from Lithium to Francium. This means the elements at the bottom of the group will be more metallic.

Metallic properties become weaker as you move across a period on the periodic table, like from Sodium to Chlorine. This means the elements on the right side of the period will be less metallic.

The most active metal in the first 20 elements on the periodic table is Potassium. It is the most reactive and will easily lose electrons.

The most active nonmetal in the first 20 elements on the periodic table is Fluorine, It's highly reactive and easily gains electrons.

Mercury is unique because it's the only metal that exists in a liquid state at room temperature. This means it's not solid like most other metals.

Objects made of metal are used because of their strong, durable properties. For example, a car is made primarily of metal because it needs to be strong and resistant to damage.