What is difference between metal and non metal

Difference between metal and non metal.

1. Physical State

• Metals: Mostly solid at room temperature (except mercury).
• Non-metals: Can be solid, liquid (bromine), or gas (oxygen, nitrogen).

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2. Appearance

• Metals: Shiny (lustrous surface).
• Non-metals: Dull (non-lustrous).

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3. Electrical Conductivity

• Metals: Good conductors of electricity.
• Non-metals: Poor conductors (except graphite).

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4. Thermal Conductivity

• Metals: Good conductors of heat.
• Non-metals: Poor conductors of heat.

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5. Malleability

• Metals: Malleable (can be beaten into thin sheets).
• Non-metals: Brittle (break easily when hammered).

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6. Ductility

• Metals: Ductile (can be drawn into wires).
• Non-metals: Non-ductile.

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7. Density

• Metals: Generally high density.
• Non-metals: Generally low density.

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8. Melting and Boiling Points

• Metals: High melting and boiling points.
• Non-metals: Low melting and boiling points (generally).

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9. Chemical Behavior (Electron Transfer)

• Metals: Lose electrons to form positive ions (cations).
• Non-metals: Gain electrons to form negative ions (anions).

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10. Nature of Oxides

• Metals: Form basic oxides (some are amphoteric like aluminum oxide).
• Non-metals: Form acidic or neutral oxides.

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🧠 Summary (Technical Insight)

• Metals: Electropositive, conductive, strong lattice structures.
• Non-metals: Electronegative, insulating, weaker intermolecular forces (in many cases).