Metals, non-metals and metalloids

Question 1

What are elements?

Answer 1

Elements are substances made up of one atom. Each atom has the same number of protons in its nucleus as the next atom.

Question 2

What are the properties of metals?

Answer 2

Metals are elements that are
- lustrous - shiny when polished
- malleable - able to be bent into new shapes
- ductile - they can be stretched into new wires
- dense - sink when dropped into water etc.
- solid - solid state at room temperature
- thermal conductors - conduct heat easily

Question 3

What are the properties of non-metals?

Answer 3

The properties of non-metals include:
- Poor conductors of heat and electricity (self explanatory)
- Low melting and boiling points (E.g bromine is a liquid at room temp. Other non-metals are gases or easily melted solids)
- Dull
- Brittle - tend to crumble into powders

Question 4

What are the properties of metalloids?

Answer 4

They act like non-metals in most ways. However, they are also semiconductors (can conduct electricity under certain conditions.)

Question 5

How are alloys formed?

Answer 5

Alloys are formed by combining metals (base metals) with small amounts of other elements. Steel is an example, as it is an alloy of iron and small amounts of carbon.

Question 6

What are carats?

Answer 6

Carats are measured on a scale, which measures the amount of pure gold in jewellery. An example is pure gold, which is 24 carat.

Question 7

What are the three types of carbon allotropes

Answer 7

Amorphous carbon, diamond, and graphite.