Physical Properties of Elements

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Luster

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The brightness of an element's surface. Metals are metallic. Nonmetals are dull.

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Conductivity

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The ability of a material to allow heat or electricity to pass through it easily.

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Malleability

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The ability of an element (usually a metal) to be hammered, rolled, or pressed into thin sheets without breaking or cracking. Gold, copper, and aluminum are elements with a high malleability.

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Ductility

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The ability of an element to be stretched or pulled into a wire.

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Metalloids

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Elements that have properties of both metals and nonmetals. They are shiny like metals, brittle like nonmetals, and are semiconductors.

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Semiconductor

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A material that can conduct electricity under some conditions but not others.

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Nonmetals

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Elements that usually do not have the properties of metals. They are often dull, brittle, and poor conductors of heat and electricity. Many are gases. Oxygen and Carbon are examples.

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Metals

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Elements that are usually shiny, good conductors of heat and electricity, and can be shaped or stretched without breaking. Iron and Cobalt are examples.

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Rare Earth Elements

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A group of metallic elements found in the periodic table that have special properties and are used in modern technologies like smartphones, computers, and electric cars. They are great conductors of electricity and have a high, metallic, luster. Antimony and Silicon are examples.

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Brittleness

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The tendency of a material to break or shatter without significant deformation when under stress. Nonmetals like sulfur are often brittle.