Metals vs Non-metals — Difference (with Table & FAQs)
Metals and non-metals are two major categories of elements with contrasting properties, fundamental for CBSE Class 10 Chemistry. Understanding their differ
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TL;DR: Metals and non-metals are two major categories of elements with contrasting properties, fundamental for CBSE Class 10 Chemistry. Understanding their d…
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The main difference between Metals and Non-metals: Metals and non-metals are two major categories of elements with contrasting properties, fundamental for CBSE Class 10 Chemistry. Understanding their differ
Metals vs Non-metals — Comparison Table
| Basis | Metals | Non-metals |
|---|---|---|
| Lustre | Shiny and lustrous | Dull, not shiny |
| Conductivity | Conduct heat and electricity | Poor conductors (except graphite) |
| Malleability | Can be hammered into sheets | Brittle, break easily |
| Density | Generally high density | Generally low density |
| Oxides | Basic oxides | Acidic oxides |
Key Points
- Metals are shiny, conductive, and malleable; non-metals are dull, non-conductive, and brittle
- Metals form positive ions by losing electrons; non-metals form negative ions by gaining electrons
- Graphite is an exception - non-metal that conducts electricity
- Most elements are metals; fewer are non-metals