Question

Which of the following is not a metal?

• A. Copper
• B. Silver
• C. Lead
• D. Germanium

Answer 1

The correct option is D

Germanium

Metals: An element with high electrical conductivity, luster, and malleability is called a metal. For example, Copper$\left(\mathrm{Cu}\right)$, Silver$\left(Ag\right)$, and Lead$\left(Pb\right)$.

Metalloids: An element whose properties are intermediate between those of metals and solid non-metals or semiconductors. For example, Arsenic$\left(\mathrm{As}\right)$, Antimony$\left(\mathrm{Sb}\right)$, and Germanium$\left(\mathrm{Ge}\right)$.

The explanation for the correct answer:

Option D: Germanium$\left(\mathrm{Ge}\right)$

• Properties of germanium are intermediate between those of metals and solid non-metals.

• It is an example of metalloids.
• So, option D is the right answer.

The explanations for the incorrect answers:

Option A: Copper$\left(\mathrm{Cu}\right)$

• Copper has high electrical conductivity, luster, and malleability.

• It is an example of metal
• So, option A is the wrong answer.

Option B: Silver$\left(Ag\right)$

• Silver has high electrical conductivity, luster, and malleability.

• It is an example of metal
• So, option B is the wrong answer.

Option C: Lead$\left(Pb\right)$

• Lead has high electrical conductivity, luster, and malleability.

• It is an example of metal
• So, option C is the wrong answer.

Conclusion:

So, Germanium$\left(\mathrm{Ge}\right)$ is not an example of metal its metalloids.

Therefore, the right answer is option D Germanium.