Metals

Location on the Periodic Table

Metals are located on the left side and the middle of the periodic table. Group IA and Group IIA (the alkali metals) are the most active metals. The transition elements, groups IB to VIIIB, are also considered metals.

Properties

Metals are shiny solids are room temperature (except mercury), with characteristic high melting points and densities. Many of the properties of metals, including large atomic radius, low ionization energy, and low electronegativity, are due to the fact that the electrons in the valence shell of a metal atoms can be removed easily. One characteristic of metals is their ability to be deformed without breaking. Malleability is the ability of a metal to be hammered into shapes. Ductility is the ability of a metal to be drawn into wire. Because the valence electrons can move freely, metals are good heat conductors and electrical conductors.

Summary of Common Properties

• Shiny 'metallic' appearance
• Solids at room temperature (except mercury)
• High melting points
• High densities
• Large atomic radii
• Low ionization energies
• Low electronegativities
• Usually, high deformation
• Malleable
• Ductile
• Thermal conductors
• Electrical conductors