Problem 26 - Chemistry

Question

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

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Some characteristic properties that distinguish metallic elements from nonmetallic elements are: 1. Metallic elements have a shiny, lustrous appearance, while nonmetallic elements are generally dull-looking. 2. Metallic elements have high electrical and thermal conductivity, while nonmetallic elements have poor conductivity. 3. Metallic elements are malleable and ductile, while nonmetallic elements are brittle. 4. Metallic elements have high melting and boiling points, while nonmetallic elements have lower melting and boiling points. 5. Metallic elements tend to have positive oxidation states and act as electron donors, while nonmetallic elements tend to have negative oxidation states and act as electron acceptors. 6. Metallic elements typically form ionic compounds with nonmetals, while nonmetallic elements tend to form covalent compounds with other nonmetals.

Step 1: 1. Metallic appearance (luster)

Metallic elements possess a shiny appearance, reflecting light well and giving them a characteristic metallic sheen. Nonmetallic elements, on the other hand, do not have this lustrous appearance and are generally more dull-looking.

Step 2: 2. Electrical and thermal conductivity

Metallic elements are characterized by their high electrical and thermal conductivity, allowing them to conduct electricity and transfer heat efficiently. Nonmetallic elements have poor electrical and thermal conductivity, rarely acting as conductors.

Step 3: 3. Malleability and ductility

Metallic elements are malleable, meaning they can be hammered into thin sheets, and ductile, meaning they can be drawn into fine wires. This is due to the unique arrangement of their atoms in a metallic lattice. Nonmetallic elements are generally brittle and cannot be formed into sheets or wires.

Step 4: 4. Melting and boiling points

Metallic elements usually have high melting and boiling points due to the strong metallic bonds that hold their atoms together. Nonmetallic elements typically have lower melting and boiling points, as they have weaker interatomic forces.

Step 5: 5. Oxidation state

Metallic elements tend to be electron donors, meaning they readily lose electrons during chemical reactions and have positive oxidation states. Nonmetallic elements are more often electron acceptors, gaining electrons during chemical reactions and having negative oxidation states.

Step 6: 6. Chemical reactivity

Metallic elements typically form ionic compounds when reacting with nonmetals because they readily lose their valence electrons. Nonmetallic elements are more likely to form covalent compounds with other nonmetals due to their tendency to share electrons.