Metals and non metals
1. Metals
Definition
Metals are elements that are usually lustrous, hard, malleable, ductile, and good conductors of heat and electricity.
Main Details
Metals are mostly solids at room temperature (except mercury).
They have high density and melting points.
Metals react with oxygen, acids, and water to form basic compounds.
They tend to lose electrons during chemical reactions.
Examples
Iron, Copper, Gold, Silver, Aluminium
Types / Points (Five Key Behaviours)
Conduct heat and electricity.
Malleable and ductile.
Form basic oxides with oxygen.
React with acids to produce salt and hydrogen.
Usually solid and hard.
Fun Fact
Sodium is a soft metal that can be cut with a knife.
Gold does not rust because it is very unreactive.
2. Non-Metals
Definition
Non-metals are elements that are usually dull, brittle (if solid), poor conductors of heat and electricity, and do not exhibit metallic properties.
Main Details
Non-metals can be solids, liquids, or gases at room temperature.
They have low density and low melting points.
Non-metals react with oxygen to form acidic or neutral compounds.
They tend to gain electrons during chemical reactions.
Examples
Oxygen, Carbon, Nitrogen, Sulphur, Chlorine
Types / Points (Five Key Behaviours)
Poor conductors of heat and electricity.
Not malleable or ductile (brittle if solid).
Form acidic or neutral oxides with oxygen.
Usually light in weight.
Can exist as solid, liquid, or gas.
Fun Fact
Graphite is a non-metal that can conduct electricity.
Sulphur is a non-metal used in medicines and matchsticks.