Question

What are metalloids? Give examples.

Answer 1

1. Definition of metals: The elements which form positive elements due to their ability to form positive ions by losing or donating electrons are called metals.
2. Definition of non-metals: The elements which form negative ions by gaining or accepting electrons are called non-metals.
3. Definition of Metalloids: Elements having both the characteristics of metals and non-metals are called semi-metals or metalloids.

Example of metalloids:

• Only a few elements are metalloids such as Germanium$\left(\mathrm{Ge}\right)$, Silicon$\left(\mathrm{Si}\right)$, Arsenic$\left(\mathrm{As}\right)$, Antimony$\left(\mathrm{Sb}\right)$, and Tellurium$\left(\mathrm{Te}\right)$.
• Germanium is act as a metalloid because it shows both metallic and nonmetallic properties.