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Chapter 2: Problem 20

State two differences between a metal and a nonmetal.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Two differences between metals and nonmetals are: 1. Conductivity: Metals are good conductors of heat and electricity, while nonmetals are not. 2. Electron Transfer: Metals are electropositive (tend to lose electrons) and nonmetals are electronegative (tend to gain electrons).

Step by step solution

01

Identifying Properties of Metals

Metals are known for their characteristic properties such as high density, high melting point, and high boiling point. They are shiny, hard, malleable, ductile and good conductors of heat and electricity. Most of them are solid at room temperature (except Mercury), and they tend to lose electrons in a chemical reaction (i.e., they are electropositive).
02

Identifying Properties of Nonmetals

Nonmetals, on the other hand, exhibit quite different characteristics. They generally have a low density, low melting point, and low boiling point. Many nonmetals are gaseous at room temperature, they are usually not shiny, and they are poor conductors of heat and electricity. Nonmetals tend to gain electrons in a chemical reaction (i.e., they are electronegative).
03

Distinguishing Between Metals and Nonmetals

Considering this information, two major differences can be identified. First, metals are good conductors of heat and electricity while nonmetals are generally poor conductors. Second, metals are electropositive (tend to lose electrons) while nonmetals are electronegative (tend to gain electrons).

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