In this article, we will go to learn about the difference between metals and nonmetals. There are so many metals and non-metals present in our environment. And these have a wide variety of applications. They are used in various industries throughout the world. The knowledge of these metals and non-metals is very crucial to everyone. Here I am going to discuss the difference between them. I hope that you will like it.
What are Metals
The elements that have a tendency to lose their valence electrons and form positive ions are called metals. They are solid at room temperature except for Mercury that exists in a liquid phase at room temperature. For Examples: Aluminium, iron, copper, gold, silver, platinum, lead, zinc, titanium, etc.
Properties
Good conductors of heat and electricity.
They are lustrous i.e have a shinning appearance
They are ductile in nature. Ductile means that they can be drawn into thin wires.
They are Malleable in Nature, it means that they can be hammered into thin sheets.
They are sonorous in nature. Sonorous means, it produces sound when bitten with an object.
They form basic oxides.
What are Non Metals
The elements that have a tendency to accepts electrons and form negative ions are called non-metals. They may be solid, liquid and gaseous at room temperature. For Example Carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, helium, hydrogen, sodium, etc.
Properties
Poor conductors of heat and electricity except for graphite.
They are non-lustrous in nature i.e. have a dull appearance.
They are non-ductile in nature, which means that they can not be drawn into thin wires.
