Properties of the Elements
What are elements?
Elements are… Pure substances made of one type of atom
Physical Properties Physical properties can be observed or measured without changing the composition of matter. Physical properties are used to observe and describe matter
Physical Properties Physical properties include: appearance, texture, color, odor, melting point, boiling point, density, solubility (how easily it dissolves), conductivity, and many others.
Chemical Properties Chemical properties of matter describes its "potential" to undergo some chemical change or reaction.
Chemical properties: Ask these questions… Is it Flammable? Does it react with… – Oxygen in the air? – An Acid or Base? – Water? – Other chemicals?
Metals, Nonmetals, Metalloids
Properties of Metals vs. Nonmetals Metals Strong Malleable and Ductile High melting point Can be shiny (have luster) Good conductors of heat and electricity Mostly solid at room temp Non-Metals Weak Brittle Low melting point Dull Poor conductors of heat and electricity Can be solid, liquid or gas at room temperature
Metals Nonmetals
Metalloids All Solids at room temp Brittle Have a luster Semi-conductors of electricity