Properties Of Metals And Nonmetals - Vedantu

Metals and nonmetals are two broad categories of elements with distinct properties. Metals are typically characterised by their conductivity, malleability, and ability to form alloys, making them essential in construction, electronics, and machinery. They are usually shiny, dense, and solid at room temperature, except mercury. In contrast, nonmetals are known for their lack of conductivity, brittleness, and tendency to form acidic oxides. These elements are often gases or solids that are not malleable and tend to be poor conductors of heat and electricity. This page aims to explore the key properties of metals and nonmetals, highlighting their differences, applications, and roles in various industries.

What are Metals?

Metals are elements that are typically conductive, malleable, and ductile. They are found on the left side of the periodic table and tend to lose electrons in reactions. Examples include iron, copper, and aluminium.

Properties of Metals

Physical Properties

• Lustrous: Metals have a shiny appearance, making them highly reflective.

• Malleable: Metals can be hammered or pressed into thin sheets without breaking.

• Ductile: They can be drawn into wires.

• Good Conductors: Metals are excellent conductors of heat and electricity due to the free movement of electrons.

• High Melting and Boiling Points: Most metals have high melting and boiling points, making them useful in high-temperature environments.

Chemical Properties

• Reactivity with Oxygen: Metals tend to form basic oxides when reacting with oxygen.

4Fe+3O2​→2Fe2​O3​

• Reactivity with Water: Some metals react vigorously with water, producing hydrogen gas.

2Na+2H2​O→2NaOH+H2​

• Formation of Positive Ions: Metals generally lose electrons to form positive ions in chemical reactions.

Na→Na++e−

Uses of Metals

• Construction: Steel and aluminium are used in construction for their strength and durability.

• Electronics: Copper and gold are used in wiring and electronics due to their high conductivity.

• Transportation: Metals like iron, steel, and aluminium are used in vehicles, aeroplanes, and ships.

What are Nonmetals?

Nonmetals are elements found on the right side of the periodic table that generally lack the properties of metals. They are poor conductors of heat and electricity, are brittle in solid form, and often gain electrons in chemical reactions. Common examples of nonmetals include oxygen, nitrogen, carbon, and sulfur.

Properties of Nonmetals

Physical Properties

• Brittle: Nonmetals are generally brittle in solid form and will break or shatter if struck.

• Non-Lustrous: Nonmetals do not have the shiny appearance of metals; they are usually dull.

• Poor Conductors: Nonmetals are poor conductors of heat and electricity.

• Low Melting and Boiling Points: Nonmetals typically have lower melting and boiling points compared to metals.

Chemical Properties

• Reactivity with Oxygen: Nonmetals form acidic oxides when they react with oxygen.

2SO2​+O2​→2SO3​

• Formation of Negative Ions: Nonmetals tend to gain electrons to form negative ions during chemical reactions.

Cl2​+2e−→2Cl−

• Reactivity with Metals: Nonmetals often react with metals to form salts, such as in the reaction between chlorine and sodium.

2Na+Cl2​→2NaCl

Uses of Nonmetals

• Medicine: Iodine and oxygen are critical for medicinal applications.

• Agriculture: Nitrogen is used as a fertilizer, while phosphorus plays a key role in plant growth.

• Water Treatment: Chlorine is used to disinfect water, ensuring safe drinking water.

Key Differences Between Metals and Nonmetals

Metals and nonmetals exhibit distinct properties that differentiate them from each other. Metals are typically good conductors of heat and electricity, malleable, and ductile, making them ideal for various industrial applications. In contrast, nonmetals are poor conductors, brittle in solid form, and often form negative ions in reactions. Understanding the properties of both metals and nonmetals helps in recognising their roles in nature and their applications in different fields.