Give two differences between a metal and a nonmetal

Short Answer

Expert verified
Two differences between metals and non-metals are: 1) Metals are malleable and good conductors, nonmetals are brittle and poor conductors. 2) Metals tend to lose electrons and form positive ions in chemical reactions, whereas nonmetals gain or share electrons, forming negative ions or covalent bonds.

Step by step solution

01

Identify Physical Properties

Metals are typically shiny, good conductors of heat and electricity, and are malleable and ductile which means they can be pounded into thin sheets or drawn into wires respectively. Non-metals, on the other hand, may lack a metallic luster, not good conductors of heat and electricity, and are generally brittle.
02

Identify Chemical Properties

Metals tend to lose electrons and form positive ions in chemical reactions, which is a property referred to as metallic. Non-metals, however, gain or share electrons in chemical reactions, which leads to the formation of negative ions or covalent bonds.

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