Some Properties Between Metals And Nonmetals

Some Properties Between Metals and Nonmetals 1. Remember that most elements are metals, rather than non-metals. The table summarises some differences in their properties. Chemical Properties Metals

Nonmetals

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Usually have 1-3 electrons in their outer shell. Lose their valence electrons easily. Form oxides that are basic. Are good reducing agents.

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Have lower electronegativities.

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Usually have 4-8 electrons in their outer shell. Gain or share valence electrons easily. Form oxides that are acidic. Are good oxidizing agents.

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Have higher electronegativities.

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Physical Properties Metals • • • • • •

Good electrical conductors and heat conductors. Malleable - can be beaten into thin sheets. Ductile - can be stretched into wire. Possess metallic luster. Opaque as thin sheet. Solid at room temperature (except Hg).

Nonmetals • • • • • •

Poor conductors of heat and electricity. Brittle - if a solid. Nonductile. Do not possess metallic luster. Transparent as a thin sheet. Solids, liquids or gases at room temperature.

2. Type of chemical bonding Metal Properties Metals in the form of elements are usually good conductors of electricity, are flexible and strong. When they are combined with oxygen to form oxides, they are alkaline compounds. When combined with chlorine to form chlorides they form ionic compounds which have giant structures. Non-Metal Properties Non-metals as elements are rarely solids, usually they are gases. They are poor conductors of electricity except graphite which has a special structure. Their oxides are often gases and are acidic. Their chlorides are covalently bonded and solids or liquids. 3. Metalloids

Elements that have properties of both metals and nonmetals are called metalloids. They can be shiny or dull and their shape is easily changed. Metalloids typically conduct heat and electricity better than nonmetals but not as well as metals.