Question

State whether each of the following properties is more typical of a metal or a nonmetal: (a) dull powder (b) colorless gas (c) high density (d) reacts with metals

Short answer

(a) Nonmetal, (b) Nonmetal, (c) Metal, (d) Nonmetal.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Properties

First, we need to understand the properties typically exhibited by metals and nonmetals. Metals are usually shiny, good conductors of electricity and heat, malleable, ductile, and have high density. On the other hand, nonmetals can be gases, liquids, or solids and usually have low density, are poor conductors, and include materials that are dull.

Analyze Property (a): Dull Powder

Metals tend to have a shiny (lustrous) appearance, while nonmetals can be dull. A dull powder would typically be associated with nonmetals because they do not have the lustrous qualities of metals.

Analyze Property (b): Colorless Gas

Metals are typically solid at room temperature (except for mercury), whereas nonmetals can be found in various states including gases. A colorless gas is far more characteristic of nonmetals, such as oxygen, nitrogen, or argon.

Analyze Property (c): High Density

Metals generally have a high density due to their closely packed atoms and metallic bonding, while nonmetals usually have lower densities. Therefore, a high density is a property typical of metals.

Analyze Property (d): Reacts with Metals

Nonmetals often react with metals to form compounds, particularly ionic compounds. For example, chlorine (a nonmetal) reacts with sodium (a metal) to form sodium chloride.

Key concepts

Physical Properties

Physical properties are traits that can be observed or measured without changing the composition of a substance. Both metals and nonmetals have distinct physical properties that can help in identifying them.
Metals are known for their lustrous appearance, which means they are shiny and often reflect light. This is why metals are used in jewelry and household items. Another key physical property is high density. Metals like iron and gold have a high density because their atoms are closely packed.

• Malleability and Ductility: Metals can be hammered into thin sheets (malleability) or drawn into wires (ductility), making them versatile in different applications.
• Conductivity: Most metals are excellent conductors of heat and electricity.

Nonmetals, in contrast, can exist as gases, liquids, or solids at room temperature. They generally have low density and are poor conductors of heat and electricity. Dull appearance is common among nonmetals, distinguishing them from shiny metals.

Chemical Properties

Chemical properties are characteristics that dictate how a substance can change into a new substance via chemical reactions. Both metals and nonmetals have unique chemical behaviors.
Metals tend to lose electrons during chemical reactions, leading to the formation of positive ions. This is one reason metals are reactive, especially with nonmetals.

• Reactivity with Acids: Many metals react with acids to produce hydrogen gas.
• Oxidation: Metals can oxidize, which means they react with oxygen. This process can lead to rust or tarnish.

On the other hand, nonmetals often gain or share electrons in chemical reactions. They tend to form negative ions or participate in covalent bonding.

• Reactivity with Metals: Nonmetals like chlorine can react with metals to form ionic compounds.
• Acid Formation: Certain nonmetals can form acidic compounds, such as sulfur forming sulfuric acid when combined with oxygen and water.

Metal Characteristics

Metals have several distinct characteristics, which make them essential in everyday life and industry. Understanding these characteristics can explain why metals are used in certain applications.
Due to their conductive properties, metals like copper and aluminum are critical in electrical wiring. Their capacity to conduct electricity efficiently is unrivaled, making them indispensable in electrical circuits.

• Lustre: Metals are shiny and reflect light, which makes them attractive for decorative purposes.
• Strength and Durability: Metals are typically strong, making them useful in construction, from skyscrapers to bridges.
• Versatility: The ability to change shape without breaking (malleability) and form complex shapes (ductility) allows metals to be formed into numerous products.

Nonmetal Characteristics

Nonmetals display a range of characteristics that differentiate them from metals, and they are equally essential in various domains.
One primary aspect is their state at room temperature. Nonmetals can be gases (like oxygen and nitrogen), liquids (like bromine), or solids (like sulfur). This diversity makes them unique and adaptable to different uses.

• Poor Conductors: Nonmetals generally do not conduct heat or electricity well, making them suitable as insulators. For example, rubber is used to insulate electrical wires.
• Chemical Reactivity: Nonmetals like oxygen are incredibly reactive, playing significant roles in combustion and respiration.
• Color and Form: Many nonmetals have varied colors and forms, such as the bright yellow hue of sulfur or the gaseous form of chlorine.

These characteristics underscore the importance of nonmetals in biology, technology, and chemical industries.