Metals and non-metals can be distinguished by the following properties:
∙ Lustre: The ability of a material to shine. Metals are generally lustrous while non-metals are generally non-lustrous.
∙ Ductility: The property by which a material can be drawn, bent, or twisted into thin wires. Metals are generally ductile while non-metals are generally non-ductile.
∙ Sonority: The ability of a material to produce a ringing sound when struck. Metals are generally sonorous while non-metals are generally non-sonorous.
∙ Malleability: The property of a material by which it can be pressed or rolled into thin sheets. Metals are generally malleable while non-metals are generally non-malleable.
∙ Conductivity: The ability of a material to allow the passage of heat and electricity through them. Metals are generally good conductors of heat and electricity while non-metals are generally poor conductors of heat and electricity.