Question

Silicon has the characteristics of a: (a) Non metal (b) Metalloid (c) Metal (d) None of these

Short answer

Silicon is a metalloid.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Definition of a Metalloid

Metalloids have properties that are intermediate between those of metals and non-metals. Silicon, for example, has some metal-like characteristics such as conductivity, but it lacks traits like malleability that are typical of metals.

Analyze Silicon's Properties

Silicon is a semiconductor, which means it conducts electricity better than non-metals but worse than metals. It is brittle and behaves chemically as a non-metal but is shiny like a metal.

Compare with Available Options

Based on its properties, Silicon does not match the characteristics of a full metal or non-metal. It does, however, fit the definition of a metalloid, which exhibits mixed characteristics of metals and non-metals.

Choose the Most Suitable Answer

Given Silicon's distinctive properties, it is best categorized under option (b) Metalloid as it shares characteristics with both metals and non-metals.

Key concepts

Properties of Metalloids

Metalloids showcase a unique blend of properties that aren't exclusive to metals or non-metals. This intriguing hybrid nature makes them quite fascinating.
Metalloids generally appear shiny, resembling metals in luster. However, unlike metals, they are not as malleable or ductile, meaning they can't be easily shaped.
Temperature can greatly influence their conductivity, an essential property in materials science. They conduct electricity better at higher temperatures, a trait not seen in metals, which typically become better conductors as they cool.

• Shiny appearance but not malleable like metals
• Intermediate electrical conductivity
• Temperature-dependent conductivity

Understanding these characteristics allows us to categorize metalloids like silicon accurately.

Electrical Conductivity of Silicon

Silicon's ability to conduct electricity is a hallmark of its status as a semiconductor. Semiconductors are critical in the electronics industry because they allow control over electrical flow.
Silicon has a notable property; it becomes more conductive as the temperature increases. This contrasts sharply with metals, where conductivity typically decreases with rising temperatures.
This behavior can be explained by the movement of electrons. At higher temperatures, more electrons gain enough energy to move across the structure, creating more pathways for electrical current.

• Becomes more conductive with increased temperature
• Allows controlled electrical flow in devices
• Contrasts with metals' decreasing conductivity at higher temperatures

Silicon's conductivity is crucial, especially in creating integrated circuits and other electronic devices.

Characteristics of Metals and Non-metals

To fully appreciate what makes metalloids like silicon unique, it's helpful to review some basic characteristics of metals and non-metals.
Metals are typically good conductors of electricity and heat, have a shiny appearance, and can be reshaped without breaking. They are often malleable and ductile, often leading them to be fashioned into wires or sheets.
In contrast, non-metals are usually poor conductors of electricity and heat. They often appear dull and have a varied array of characteristics, from brittle solids to gases.

• Metals: conductive, malleable, ductile, shiny
• Non-metals: poor conductors, often brittle or gaseous
• Metalloids like silicon bridge the gap with mixed properties

Understanding these characteristics helps in identifying substances like silicon that don't fit neatly into one category.