Final answer:
The most active metals are found on the left side of the periodic table, and the most active nonmetals are in the upper right portion. Metals are lustrous and excellent conductors, while nonmetals are typically gases or brittle and poor conductors. Metalloids have intermediate properties between metals and nonmetals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most active metals are located on the left side of the periodic table, while the most active nonmetals are found in the upper right portion. The periodic table is divided into several categories, such as metals, nonmetals, and metalloids. Metals exhibit characteristics like luster, good electrical conductivity, and malleability. In contrast, nonmetals are usually gases or brittle solids and poor electrical conductors. The metalloids, which exhibit properties intermediate between metals and nonmetals, form a diagonal band between the two classes. For example, within the category of metals, elements like scandium and iron are very active, whereas platinum metals are much less reactive.