Staircase Line

Metals

Non-metals

Metalloids

The term 'periodic' from Periodic Table means pattern and / or Interval and helps scientists see patterns in the chemical and physical properties of elements. The elements are organized by families. The staircase line separates the metals from the non-metals. Each element that is on the staircase line is known as a metalloid and has properties of both metals and non-metals. The exception is hydrogen, where even though it is grouped with the metals, is actually a non-metal. There are 4 physical properties that we use to describe metals, non-metals and metalloids. They are state at room temperature, appearance, conductivity, malleability/ductility.

Alkali Metals *Extremely reactive with water

Alkaline Earth Metals *fairly reactive

Halogens *Extremely reactive, usually found in compounds

Noble Gases *Unreactive