What are metals and non-metals? Write down their physical and chemical properties.

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Points to Remember:

  • Distinction between metals and non-metals based on physical and chemical properties.
  • Examples of each category.
  • Applications based on their properties.

Introduction:

Elements are the fundamental building blocks of matter, classified broadly into metals and non-metals based on their distinct physical and chemical characteristics. While a clear-cut division isn’t always possible (metalloids exist in a grey area), understanding these differences is crucial in various scientific and technological applications. The periodic table provides a visual representation of this classification, with metals generally occupying the left and center, and non-metals residing on the right.

Body:

1. Metals:

  • Physical Properties:

    • Lustrous: Metals possess a characteristic shine or luster. For example, gold and silver are highly lustrous.
    • Malleable: They can be hammered into thin sheets. This is used extensively in sheet metal fabrication.
    • Ductile: They can be drawn into wires. This property is essential for electrical wiring.
    • Good conductors of heat and electricity: This is due to the presence of freely moving electrons. Copper and aluminum are widely used in electrical wiring due to this property.
    • High density: Most metals are relatively dense compared to non-metals.
    • High melting and boiling points: Most metals have high melting and boiling points, with exceptions like mercury (liquid at room temperature).
    • Sonorous: They produce a ringing sound when struck.

  • Chemical Properties:

    • Electropositive: They tend to lose electrons easily, forming positive ions. This is the basis of many chemical reactions.
    • React with oxygen to form oxides: Many metal oxides are basic in nature. For example, iron reacts with oxygen to form iron oxide (rust).
    • React with acids to form salts and hydrogen gas: This is a common chemical reaction used in laboratories.
    • React with water to form hydroxides and hydrogen gas (some metals): Highly reactive metals like sodium and potassium react vigorously with water.

2. Non-Metals:

  • Physical Properties:

    • Non-lustrous (generally): They lack the characteristic shine of metals. Exceptions include iodine, which has a metallic luster.
    • Brittle: They tend to break easily when subjected to stress.
    • Poor conductors of heat and electricity: This is because they lack freely moving electrons. Exceptions include graphite (a form of carbon), which is a good conductor of electricity.
    • Low density: Generally less dense than metals.
    • Low melting and boiling points: Many non-metals have relatively low melting and boiling points.
    • Non-sonorous: They do not produce a ringing sound when struck.

  • Chemical Properties:

    • Electronegative: They tend to gain electrons easily, forming negative ions.
    • React with oxygen to form oxides: Many non-metal oxides are acidic in nature. For example, sulfur dioxide is an acidic oxide.
    • Generally do not react with acids: However, some exceptions exist.
    • Generally do not react with water: Again, some exceptions exist.

Conclusion:

Metals and non-metals exhibit contrasting physical and chemical properties, making them suitable for diverse applications. Metals’ conductivity, malleability, and ductility are exploited in electrical wiring, construction, and manufacturing. Non-metals, on the other hand, find use in various applications based on their insulating properties, reactivity, and other unique characteristics. Understanding these differences is fundamental to advancements in materials science, chemistry, and engineering. Further research into the properties of metalloids, which bridge the gap between metals and non-metals, is crucial for developing novel materials with tailored properties for specific applications. A holistic approach to materials science, considering both the benefits and limitations of each class of elements, is essential for sustainable and responsible technological development.

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