Metals are primarily located on the left side and in the center of the periodic table. They occupy groups 1 through 12 and part of groups 13 through 16.
- Alkali Metals: These are located in group 1 (excluding hydrogen) and include elements like lithium (Li), sodium (Na), and potassium (K).
- Alkaline Earth Metals: Found in group 2, these include elements like magnesium (Mg) and calcium (Ca).
- Transition Metals: These are located in groups 3 through 12 and include well-known metals like iron (Fe), copper (Cu), and gold (Au).
- Post-transition Metals: Found in groups 13 to 16, these metals include aluminum (Al), tin (Sn), and lead (Pb).
In contrast, nonmetals are located to the right of the metals, while metalloids are situated along the zigzag line that separates metals and nonmetals. Overall, about three-quarters of the elements in the periodic table are metals.