Final answer:
Metals are elements that conduct electricity and heat, have a shiny appearance, and are malleable and ductile. They often have high melting points and densities and are mostly solid at room temperature, except mercury. The production of metals has a significant environmental impact, but alloys made from metals serve in diverse applications with enhanced properties.
Step-by-step explanation:
Main Properties and Characteristics of Metals
Metals are elements known for their ability to conduct heat and electricity. They also have a metallic lustre (shine), are malleable (can be hammered into thin sheets), and ductile (can be drawn into wires). With high melting points and densities, metals are predominantly solid at room temperature, except for mercury (Hg), which is a liquid. In the periodic table, metals represent about 80 percent of all elements.
When considering the extraction of metals from their ores, it's important to identify the specific metal and its main ores as well as the process used to extract the metal, which often involves smelting or electrolysis. For example, aluminum is extracted from the ore bauxite through the Bayer process and electrolysis.
The environmental impact of metal production is significant, including issues like resource depletion, energy consumption, and pollution. Responsible sourcing and recycling of metals are essential to mitigate these impacts.
Metal Alloys and Uses
Different metals have different uses based on their properties. For example, iron, which is strong and malleable, is used in construction. Alloys, like steel (an alloy of iron and carbon), often exhibit enhanced properties such as increased strength or resistance to corrosion, making them useful in a wide range of applications.