Chapter 6.1, Problem 3SSC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The general characteristics of metals, non-metals and metalloids needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Metals are elements which can donate its valence electrons to attain stable configuration and non-metals are the elements which can accept electrons to attain stable configuration. Metalloids are the elements which possess properties of both metals and non-metals.

Answer to Problem 3SSC

Metal, non-metals and metalloids have different general characteristics from each other.

Explanation of Solution

Metals are solid except mercury which is a liquid. It has a shiny luster, that is, lustrous. They are good conductors and heat and electricity. They are malleable and ductile.

Non-metals are gases, solid and liquid. Bromine is the only liquid non-metal. Non-metals are not very shiny, they are poor conductors of heat and electricity. They are brittle and non-ductile in nature.

Metalloids are solids. They can be shiny or dull and may conduct electricity. They are poor conductors of heat. They are brittle and non-ductile.

Conclusion

Metalloids have properties of both metals and non-metals. Some properties of non-metals present in metalloid are poor conductor of heat, brittleness and non-ductility.