Final answer:
Metalloids are elements that have properties intermediate between metals and nonmetals. Examples of metalloids include boron, silicon, and arsenic.
Step-by-step explanation:
Metalloids, also known as semimetals, are elements that have properties intermediate between metals and nonmetals. They exhibit characteristics of both groups. For example, metalloids have luster like metals, but they are brittle like nonmetals. They also have moderate heat and electrical conductivity.
Three examples of elements that exhibit metalloid behavior are:
- Boron: Boron is a metalloid that is used in the production of borosilicate glass, such as Pyrex. It is also used as a dopant in semiconductors.
- Silicon: Silicon is a widely known metalloid and is used extensively in computer chips and other electronics due to its semiconducting properties.
- Arsenic: Arsenic is a metalloid that has been used in pesticides and wood preservatives. It can exhibit both metallic and nonmetallic properties.