Final answer:
A metalloid may behave like a non-metal under certain conditions. Metalloids are elements with properties between metals and nonmetals and are typically semiconductors.
Step-by-step explanation:
Under some conditions, a metalloid may behave like a non-metal. Metalloids have properties that are intermediate between those of metals and nonmetals. They can be considered semiconductors and are found along the zigzag line that separates metals and nonmetals on the periodic table.
Metals are shiny, typically silvery in color, malleable, ductile, and excellent conductors of electricity and heat. Nonmetals, on the other hand, are usually dull, brittle in their solid form, and poor conductors. Metalloids like silicon or germanium can exhibit metallic behavior by conducting electricity, but under other conditions, they can behave like nonmetals, not conducting electricity.
Furthermore, metalloids can be used in various applications because of their semiconductor properties, and their behavior can be manipulated based on the external conditions they are subjected to.