Further Context on Metals and Nonmetals

Alkaline Metals

Informal term sometimes used to refer to the alkaline earth metals in Group 2 of the periodic table: beryllium, magnesium, calcium, strontium, barium, and radium.

Transition Metals

Group of metals in Groups 3-12 with partially filled d orbitals, high melting points, hardness, and variable oxidation states: iron, copper, gold, mercury.

Poor Metals

Elements with properties between metals and nonmetals, including boron, silicon, germanium, arsenic, antimony, tellurium, polonium, astatine.

Lanthanides

Series of 15 elements with atomic numbers 57-71, chemically similar with partially filled 4f electron shells: lanthanum to lutetium.

Actinides

Series of 15 radioactive elements with atomic numbers 89-103, partially filled 5f electron shells: actinium to lawrencium.

Metals

Exhibiting high melting points, high electrical conductivity, luster, density, malleability, and ductility.

Nonmetals

Are characterized by their dull appearance, poor conductivity, brittleness, and lower melting and boiling points. They play essential roles in various chemical processes and are crucial in the formation of compounds, contrasting significantly with the properties of metals.