Metals, Nonmetals, Metalloids

Front

What are metals?

Back

Metals are elements that are typically shiny, good conductors of heat and electricity, and can be shaped into thin sheets (malleable) or drawn into wires (ductile). Examples include iron, copper, and gold.

Front

What are nonmetals?

Back

Nonmetals are elements that lack the properties of metals. They are usually dull, poor conductors of heat and electricity, and can be brittle in solid form. Examples include oxygen, sulfur, and chlorine.

Front

What are metalloids?

Back

Metalloids are elements that have properties of both metals and nonmetals. They can be semiconductors, meaning they conduct electricity better than nonmetals but not as well as metals. Examples include silicon and arsenic.

Front

What is a compound?

Back

A compound is a substance formed when two or more elements are chemically bonded together. For example, carbon dioxide (CO2) is a compound made of carbon and oxygen.

Front

What is the significance of capital letters in chemical formulas?

Back

In chemical formulas, a capital letter represents the symbol of an element. If there are multiple capital letters, it indicates a compound made of different elements.

Front

What does it mean if a substance is brittle?

Back

A brittle substance is one that breaks apart easily and is weak and fragile. For example, glass is considered brittle.

Front

What is conductivity?

Back

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

Front

What does ductile mean?

Back

Ductile refers to a material's ability to be stretched into a wire without breaking. Metals like copper are known for their ductility.

Front

What does malleable mean?

Back

Malleable refers to a material's ability to be hammered or pressed into thin sheets without breaking. Gold is a highly malleable metal.

Front

What is the periodic table?

Back

The periodic table is a tabular arrangement of elements organized by their atomic number, electron configuration, and recurring chemical properties.