Chapter 3.5, Problem 2QQ

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The correct statement about metallic and nonmetallic elements has to be chosen from the given options.

Concept Introduction:

Metals are elements that have characteristic properties of thermal conductivity, luster, electrical conductivity, and malleability.  Except mercury, the physical state of all other metals is solids.  They have very high melting points and high density.

Nonmetals are elements that are characterized by the absence of properties like thermal conductivity, luster, electrical conductivity, and malleability.  Mostly nonmetals are gases.  Only bromine is present as liquid in room temperature.  The density of nonmetals is low and they have lower melting points than metals.

In the periodic table, a total of 23 elements are nonmetals.  The metallic property of the elements decreases as moving from left to right across the period in a periodic table.  The elements that are present in right side of the periodic table are nonmetals.