ThinkRankMaterials: Metals and Non-metals
Metals and non-metals show different physical and chemical properties, but the categories include exceptions and should be tested rather than memorised blindly. Metals are often malleable, ductile, lustrous, and good conductors, while non-metals have varied uses. Reactions with oxygen, water, acids, and bases reveal chemical behaviour.
Learning Objectives
- •Explain physical properties
- •Explain chemical reactions
- •Explain uses follow properties
Key Concepts
Physical properties
Lustre, hardness, malleability, ductility, sonority, and conductivity help compare materials, although no single property fits every example.
Chemical reactions
Metals and non-metals form different compounds with oxygen and may react differently with water and acids.
Uses follow properties
Copper wires, aluminium foil, graphite electrodes, and oxygen cylinders work because a material property fits the task.
Terminology
Historical Insight
Displacement
A more reactive metal can displace a less reactive metal from a salt solution, providing evidence of relative reactivity.
Corrosion protection
Painting, oiling, galvanising, and alloying can reduce the contact or reaction that causes corrosion.
Quick Check
Why is copper used in wires?
What is malleability?
How can corrosion be reduced?
How to use this lesson
Read the overview first, then explain the main idea in your own words before checking the key concepts. Use the quick-check questions without looking at the answer. For examination preparation, verify dates, definitions, and syllabus requirements against your official textbook and school or examination-board guidance.