metal). The metals on the left side of the Periodic Table include alkali metals (Group 1 elements, excluding hydrogen) and alkaline earth metals (Group 2 elements), as well as transition metals (found in the center of the table) and other post-transition metals (located on the right side of the transition metals).
Metals generally have characteristics such as:
- High electrical and thermal conductivity: Metals are good conductors of electricity and heat.
- Luster: They have a shiny appearance when polished.
- Malleability: Metals can be hammered into thin sheets without breaking.
- Ductility: They can be drawn into wires without snapping.
- High melting and boiling points: Most metals have high melting and boiling points compared to nonmetals.
In contrast, nonmetals, which are typically located on the right side of the Periodic Table, exhibit very different properties, such as poor conductivity, lack of luster, and brittleness in solid form.
If you have any specific questions about metals, their properties, or their placement in the Periodic Table, feel free to ask!