Compare the physical properties of metals and non-metals. Give one exception for each property.
How to lay out the answer. Follow the frame, then write it in your own words.
1 · Open in one line. Metals and non-metals differ in lustre, hardness, malleability, ductility, conduction and state.
2 · Lustre and hardness. Metals are lustrous and usually hard; non-metals are dull. Exceptions: iodine is lustrous; sodium and potassium are soft; diamond is very hard.
3 · Malleability and ductility. Metals can be beaten into sheets and drawn into wires; non-metals are brittle.
4 · Conduction. Metals are good conductors of heat and electricity; non-metals are poor conductors. Exceptions: graphite conducts electricity; lead and mercury conduct heat poorly.
5 · State and melting point. Metals are solids with high melting points, but mercury is a liquid, and gallium and caesium melt on the palm. Non-metals are solids or gases, but bromine is a liquid.
6 · Link to real life. Silver varq on sweets shows malleability; copper wires covered with PVC use conduction safely.
7 · Close in one line. So most elements follow these patterns, and the exceptions are often asked.
Scoring tip: A table with columns for property, metals, non-metals and exceptions scores well and saves time.
