Characteristcs of Metals and Non-Metals

Reference: Characteristics of Metals and Non-Metals

Characteristics of Metals

1. All are solids
2. Tend to form positive ions.
3. Are located left of the zig-zag line
4. Conduct electricity well
5. Are malleable (can be hammered/flattened)
6. Have luster (are shiny)
7. Are ductile (pulled into a wire)
8. Can be alloyed (combined with other metals)
   • Copper + Tin = Bronze
   • Copper + Zinc = Brass
   • Iron + Copper = Steel

Characteristics of Non-Metals

1. Are usually gases
2. All form negative ions
3. Located right of the zig-zag line
4. Poor conductors of electricity
5. Aren't malleable (they crumble!)
6. Aren't lustrous (not shiny!)
7. Aren't ductile

Metalloids: Have some characteristics of metals and some characteristics of non-metals

1. Semi-conductor: Good conductor when hot. Poor conductor when cold.