Question

Characteristics that distinguish metals, nonmetals, and metalloids.

a) Metals are good conductors, nonmetals are bad conductors, and metalloids have properties of both.
b) Metals are bad conductors, nonmetals are good conductors, and metalloids have properties of neither.
c) Metals are solids, nonmetals are liquids, and metalloids are gases.
d) Metals, nonmetals, and metalloids have identical characteristics.

Answer 1

Metals are good conductors, nonmetals are bad conductors, and metalloids have properties of both.

Step-by-step explanation:

Metals, nonmetals, and metalloids have distinct characteristics that differentiate them from each other:

1. Metals: Metals are good conductors of electricity and heat. They are typically shiny, malleable, ductile, and have a lustrous appearance. Examples of metals include copper, gold, and iron.
2. Nonmetals: Nonmetals are poor conductors of electricity and heat. They appear dull and are usually brittle. Examples of nonmetals include carbon, oxygen, and sulfur.
3. Metalloids: Metalloids, also known as semimetals, have properties that lie between metals and nonmetals. They have intermediate conductivities and may exhibit traits of both metals and nonmetals. Examples of metalloids include silicon, boron, and arsenic.