Question

List the characteristic physical properties that distinguish the metallic elements from the nonmetallic elements.

Short answer

The characteristic physical properties that distinguish metallic elements from nonmetallic elements are: 1. Atomic structure and periodic table location: Metallic elements have a few electrons in their outer valence shell and are found on the left side of the periodic table. Nonmetallic elements have more electrons in their outer shell and are located on the right upper side of the periodic table. 2. Electrical conductivity: Metallic elements are excellent conductors of electricity, while nonmetallic elements are insulators. 3. Thermal conductivity: Metallic elements are good conductors of heat, while nonmetallic elements are typically poor conductors. 4. Luster: Metallic elements have a shiny, metallic luster, whereas nonmetallic elements are dull in appearance. 5. Malleability and ductility: Metallic elements are malleable and ductile, while nonmetallic elements are brittle. 6. Density: Metallic elements generally have higher densities than nonmetallic elements.

Step-by-step solution

Definition of Metallic Elements and Nonmetallic Elements

Metallic elements are elements that have metallic bonding and exhibit metallic-like properties, such as iron, aluminum, and copper. Nonmetallic elements are elements that do not exhibit these metallic properties although some of them are still essential for life, such as oxygen, carbon, and nitrogen.

Atomic Structure and Periodic Table Location

Metallic elements tend to have a few electrons in their outer valence shell, which allows for the easy formation of metallic bonds. They are found on the left side of the periodic table, specifically in groups 1-12 (transition metals), and some in groups 13-16. Non-metallic elements, on the other hand, have more electrons in their outer shell, which results in different types of chemical bonds and physical properties. They are generally located on the right upper side of the periodic table, within groups 14-18.

Physical Property 1: Electrical Conductivity

Metallic elements are excellent conductors of electricity. This is due to their specific atomic structure, which allows for the flow of electrons between atoms. Nonmetallic elements generally do not conduct electricity and are considered insulators.

Physical Property 2: Thermal Conductivity

Metallic elements are also good conductors of heat, meaning that they can transfer heat efficiently. This is because their atoms are closely packed together and can transfer energy through the vibrations of their atoms. Nonmetallic elements are typically poor conductors of heat, with some exceptions being carbon (in its graphite form) and certain types of gases.

Physical Property 3: Luster

Metallic elements often have a shiny, metallic luster due to their ability to reflect light. This is a result of the delocalized electrons that transmit light across their surface. Nonmetallic elements, on the other hand, generally lack luster and are dull in appearance.

Physical Property 4: Malleability and Ductility

Metallic elements tend to be malleable (can be hammered or rolled into sheets) and ductile (can be drawn into wires) because of their metallic bonding and the closely packed arrangement of their atoms. In contrast, nonmetallic elements are generally not malleable or ductile and can be brittle, meaning they have a tendency to break or shatter under stress.

Physical Property 5: Density

Metallic elements typically have higher densities than nonmetallic elements because their atoms are packed closely together in a regular lattice. However, there are always exceptions such as the low-density metal lithium and the high-density nonmetal element osmium. In summary, the characteristic physical properties that distinguish metallic elements from nonmetallic elements include their atomic structure and periodic table location, electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, luster, malleability and ductility, and density. These properties make metallic elements unique and indispensable for many modern technologies and applications.