Metals and non-metals · धातु एवं अधातु
A free Chemistry lesson for Class 10 children.
Metals are shiny, hard, malleable and ductile, and they conduct heat and electricity.
Non-metals are dull and brittle, and most do not conduct electricity. Graphite is an exception.
Metals lose electrons to form positive ions. Non-metals gain electrons to form negative ions.
The reactivity series lists metals from most to least reactive: potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, aluminium, zinc, iron, lead, copper, silver, gold.
A more reactive metal displaces a less reactive one from its salt solution.
Metals above hydrogen in the series react with dilute acids to give hydrogen gas.
Ionic compounds such as sodium chloride have high melting points and conduct electricity when dissolved or molten.
Iron rusts in moist air. Galvanising, painting and alloying prevent it.