Final answer:
Metalloids are elements that exhibit properties of both metals and non-metals, such as being shiny but brittle. They are located along the zigzag line on the periodic table and their mixed characteristics make them useful in electronics. The correct answer to the student's question is that metalloids exhibit properties of both metals and non-metals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term metalloids refers to elements that exhibit properties intermediate between those of metals and non-metals. While metals are shiny, malleable, ductile, and excellent conductors of electricity and heat, non-metals are typically dull, brittle, and poor electrical conductors. Metalloids, or semi-metals, on the other hand, often show a mix of these characteristics. They may be shiny like metals but brittle like non-metals, and their electrical conductivity tends to increase with temperature, which is a non-metallic property. Silicon, for example, is a metalloid because it has luster but is also brittle.
In addressing the question, 'Which of the following best describes the properties of the metalloids group?' the correct answer is 2) They exhibit properties of both metals and non-metals. Metalloids are positioned along the diagonal border in the periodic table that separates metals and non-metals. This unique position gives them an interesting blend of characteristics that are useful in various applications, like semiconductors in electronics.