Metals, Nonmetals, and Metalloids

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What are metals?

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Metals are elements that are typically shiny, good conductors of heat and electricity, malleable, and ductile. Examples include iron, copper, and aluminum.

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What are nonmetals?

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Nonmetals are elements that lack the characteristics of metals. They are usually poor conductors of heat and electricity, and can be gases, liquids, or brittle solids. Examples include oxygen, nitrogen, and sulfur.

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What are metalloids?

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Metalloids are elements that have properties of both metals and nonmetals. They are semiconductors and are used in electronics. Examples include silicon and germanium.

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What does ductile mean?

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Ductile refers to the ability of a material, typically metals, to be drawn into wires without breaking.

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What does malleable mean?

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Malleable refers to the ability of a material, typically metals, to be hammered or pressed into thin sheets.

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What is luster?

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Luster is the way light interacts with the surface of a mineral, indicating how shiny or reflective it is.

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What does it mean if a material is dull?

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Dull means that a material does not have a shiny appearance and reflects little light.

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What is conductivity?

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Conductivity is the ability of a material to conduct heat or electricity. Metals generally have high conductivity.

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What are the physical properties of metals?

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Physical properties of metals include high density, high melting points, malleability, ductility, and good conductivity.

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What are the physical properties of nonmetals?

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Physical properties of nonmetals include low density, low melting points, brittleness in solid form, and poor conductivity.