Classification of Elements ( Metal & Non Metal )

Metals

Metals are typically found on the left and middle of the periodic table. They generally possess the following characteristics:

• Good conductors of heat and electricity.
• Shiny appearance when freshly polished.
• Malleable (can be hammered into thin sheets) and ductile (can be drawn into wires).
• Tend to lose electrons to form positive ions (cations) in chemical reactions.
• Form basic oxides when combined with oxygen.

Examples: of metals include iron, copper, gold, aluminum, and calcium.

Non-Metals

Nonmetals are primarily found on the upper right side of the periodic table, as well as hydrogen. They exhibit these properties:

• Poor conductors of heat and electricity.
• Dull or non-shiny appearance.
• Brittle in solid form (not malleable or ductile).
• Tend to gain electrons to form negative ions (anions) in chemical reactions.
• Form acidic or neutral oxides when combined with oxygen.

Examples: of nonmetals include oxygen, nitrogen, carbon, sulfur, and chlorine.

Metalloids

It’s important to note that there are elements that exhibit properties of both metals and nonmetals. These are known as metalloids and are found along the diagonal “staircase” on the periodic table. Elements like silicon and boron have properties that are intermediate between metals and nonmetals.

List of Some Elements with their Common Uses

1. Oxygen:

   • Supports respiration for humans and animals.
   • Essential for combustion and burning processes.
   • Used in medical settings to aid breathing and in industrial processes.

2. Carbon:

   • Forms the basis of organic compounds in all living things.
   • Used in the production of fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas.
   • Carbon compounds are key in industries like plastics, textiles, and electronics.

3. Hydrogen:

   • Used as a fuel in fuel cells and potential clean energy sources.
   • Essential in the production of ammonia for fertilizers.
   • Used in various industrial processes, like making margarine.

1. Nitrogen:

   • Key component of proteins and DNA in living organisms.
   • Used in fertilizers to enhance plant growth.
   • Creates an inert atmosphere in food packaging to prevent spoilage.

2. Iron:

   • Essential in the formation of hemoglobin for oxygen transport in blood.
   • Used in construction, manufacturing, and tools due to its strength and durability.
   • Forms alloys like steel, which are widely used in buildings, vehicles, and machinery.

3. Gold:

   • Valued for its beauty and rarity in jewelry and ornaments.
   • Used in electronics due to its excellent conductivity.
   • Historical use in currency and wealth storage.

4. Aluminum:

   • Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, used in aerospace and construction.
   • Commonly used in packaging, cans, and foils.
   • Important in the production of electrical wires and cables.

5. Calcium:

   • Crucial for strong bones and teeth in humans and animals.
   • Participates in nerve signaling and muscle contraction.
   • Used as a supplement and fortifier in food and beverages.

6. Sodium:

   • Plays a critical role in maintaining fluid balance and nerve function in the body.
   • Used as a component in table salt (sodium chloride).
   • Used in various industrial processes, including glass and soap production.

7. Chlorine:

   • Used as a disinfectant in water treatment to kill bacteria and pathogens.
   • Important in the production of plastics like PVC.
   • Used in bleaching and sanitation processes in industries.

These are just a few examples of how common elements are utilized in various aspects of our lives and industries.