Metals are elements that are generally shiny, good conductors of electricity and heat, and tend to lose electrons in chemical reactions. Think of iron, gold, and aluminum β all common examples of metals that we use every day.
Nonmetals, on the other hand, are elements that typically lack metallic properties. They are often poor conductors of electricity and heat, and they tend to gain electrons in chemical reactions. Examples include oxygen, sulfur, and chlorine.
| Property | Metals | Nonmetals |
|---|---|---|
| Physical State at Room Temperature | π‘οΈ Mostly solid (except mercury) | π¨ Can be solid, liquid, or gas |
| Luster (Shininess) | β¨ Generally shiny (metallic luster) | dull (non-lustrous) |
| Malleability (Ability to be hammered into thin sheets) | π¨ Malleable | 𧱠Brittle |
| Ductility (Ability to be drawn into wires) | 𧡠Ductile | 𧢠Non-ductile |
| Conductivity of Heat and Electricity | π₯ Good conductors | β‘ Poor conductors (except graphite) |
| Density | βοΈ Generally high | π Generally low |
| Reaction with Acids | π§ͺ Often react with acids | β Do not typically react with acids |
| Oxides | π Basic oxides | π§οΈ Acidic or neutral oxides |
| Ion Formation | β Form positive ions (cations) | β Form negative ions (anions) |
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