Explain the difference between metals and nonmetals in terms of their properties.
Understand the Problem
The question asks for a comparison between metals and nonmetals based on their properties. This involves discussing characteristics like conductivity, luster, malleability, ductility, and chemical behavior to highlight the differences between these two categories of elements.
Answer
Metals are good conductors of heat/electricity, lustrous, and hard. Nonmetals are poor conductors, dull, and can be solids, liquids, or gases.
Metals are generally hard, lustrous, and good conductors of heat and electricity, with high melting and boiling points. Nonmetals are often softer, dull (non-lustrous), and poor conductors; they can be solids, liquids, or gases at room temperature.
Answer for screen readers
Metals are generally hard, lustrous, and good conductors of heat and electricity, with high melting and boiling points. Nonmetals are often softer, dull (non-lustrous), and poor conductors; they can be solids, liquids, or gases at room temperature.
More Information
The classification of elements into metals and nonmetals is based on their physical and chemical properties. Metals are known for their ability to easily lose electrons, while nonmetals tend to gain them.
Tips
A common mistake is to think all metals are hard solids; mercury is a liquid at room temperature. Also, graphite, a form of carbon (nonmetal), is a good conductor of electricity.
Sources
- Metals Versus Nonmetals - ThoughtCo - thoughtco.com
- Difference Between Metals and Nonmetals - BYJU'S - byjus.com
- 7.6: Metals, Nonmetals, and Metalloids - Chemistry LibreTexts - chem.libretexts.org
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