Question

Is there any way we can tell whether an element is a metal or a non metal without looking at the periodic table? Maybe through looking at their valencies?

Answer 1

Metals can be identified using their properties



Metal Physical Properties

• lustrous (shiny)
• good conductors of heat and electricity
• high melting point
• high density (heavy for their size)
• malleable (can be hammered)
• ductile (can be drawn into wires)
• usually solid at room temperature(an exception is mercury)
• opaque as a thin sheet (can't see through metals)
• metals are sonorous or make a bell-like sound when struck

Metal Chemical Properties

• have 1-3 electrons in the outer shell of each metal atom and lose electrons readily

• corrode easily (e.g., damaged by oxidation such as tarnish or rust)
• lose electrons easily
• form oxides that are basic
• have lower elecronegativities
• areare good reducing agents