Difference between Metals and Non-Metals
There is a great variety of elements on Earth . Everything we see is made up of them or their combinations, but what is not known about our own planet is so vast that it is not surprising that even today scientists continue to find and classify elements; even creating them from the combination of the existing ones. Difference between Metals and Non-Metals
There are currently 118 recognized chemical elements, which are classified into different categories depending on their physical and chemical characteristics: metals, non-metals and metalloids. Most of the elements are metal in nature.
Metals and non-metals differ tremendously in their characteristics and are presented separated by a zigzag line on the Periodic Table of the Elements. The properties that distinguish one from the other are described below, therefore, continue reading if you have doubts about what the difference is between them or if you simply want to obtain a little more information about this topic. . Difference between Metals and Non-Metals
METALS Difference between Metals and Non-Metals
Physical properties:
- They are generally solid at room temperature, except for mercury, which is liquid.
- They have a lustrous and shiny appearance.
- They are good conductors of heat and electricity.
- They have a high boiling and melting point.
- They have high density and are heavy for their size.
- They are malleable.
- They are sonorous.
Chemical properties:
- They have 1-3 electrons in the nucleus of each atom .
- They corrode easily.
- They lose electrons easily.
- They form oxides that are basic in nature.
- They have low electronegativity.
- They are good reducing agents.
NO METALS
This includes carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, sulfur, selenium, and the noble gases.
Physical properties:
- They are not glossy. They have a dull appearance.
- They are poor conductors of heat and electricity.
- They are solid not ductile.
- They can be in solid, liquid or gaseous state at room temperature.
- They are not audible.
Chemical properties: Difference between Metals and Non-Metals
- They generally have 4-8 electrons in their nucleus.
- They gain or share valence electrons.
- They form oxides that are acidic in nature.
- They have high electronegativity.
- They are good oxidizing agents.
Finally, if you compare the descriptions that we have shared with you, you will realize that the differences between metals and non-metals are quite clear and precise.