Roperties of Metals 

Physical Properties of Metals

Some of the physical properties of metals are listed below.

Shiny (lustrous) in nature

Metal is a good conductor of electricity and heat

Density and melting point is high

Mouldable (Malleable)

Ductile

At room temperature, it is in solid form except for mercury

Opaque

Chemical Properties of Metals

Some of the chemical properties of metals are listed below.

Easily corrodible

Can lose electrons

Form basic oxides

Have low electronegativities

Good reducing agents

Properties of Non-Metals

Physical Properties of Non-metals

Some of the physical properties of non-metals are listed below.

Poor conductors of electricity and heat

Non-Ductile metals

Brittle solids

Maybe solids, liquids or gases at room temperature

These are not sonorous

Transparent

Chemical Properties of Non-metals

Some of the chemical properties of non-metals are listed below.

The number of electrons in the outer shell is generally 4-8

Easily gain or lose valence electrons

Form acidic oxides whenever they come in contact with oxygen

High electronegative elements

Great oxidizing agents

Nonmetals and metals take different forms (allotropes). They have different shapes and properties. Allotropes are elements that exist in two or more than two different physical forms.

By this we can identify metals and non metals.

Introduction to Metals and Non-Metals
Metals and non-metals are two fundamental categories of elements with distinct properties. Understanding how to identify them is crucial in the study of materials.
Properties of Metals
- Conductivity: Metals are good conductors of heat and electricity.
- Luster: They have a shiny appearance when polished.
- Malleability: Metals can be hammered into thin sheets without breaking.
- Ductility: They can be drawn into wires.
- Density: Metals generally have high density and are heavier.
Examples of Metals
- Iron
- Copper
- Aluminum
Properties of Non-Metals
- Conductivity: Non-metals are poor conductors of heat and electricity.
- Appearance: They usually lack luster and are dull in appearance.
- Brittleness: Non-metals are brittle in solid form and break easily.
- State: They can exist in solid, liquid, or gaseous states at room temperature (e.g., bromine is liquid).
- Density: Non-metals typically have lower density compared to metals.
Examples of Non-Metals
- Oxygen
- Sulfur
- Chlorine
Identifying Metals and Non-Metals
- Physical Tests: Observe properties such as luster, malleability, and conductivity.
- Chemical Tests: Metals tend to form basic oxides, while non-metals form acidic or neutral oxides.
- Reactivity with Acids: Most metals react with acids to produce hydrogen gas, whereas non-metals do not.
Conclusion
Understanding the properties and differences between metals and non-metals is essential for classifying materials in chemistry. This knowledge is foundational for further studies in science.