Which of the following elements is a metal? This question often arises in the field of chemistry, where the classification of elements into metals, non-metals, and metalloids is crucial for understanding their properties and behaviors. In this article, we will explore the characteristics of metals and identify which of the given elements belongs to this category.
Metals are a group of elements that share certain properties, such as high electrical and thermal conductivity, malleability, ductility, and luster. They are typically found on the left side of the periodic table, with a few exceptions. The majority of metals are solid at room temperature, although mercury is the only metal that remains liquid under standard conditions.
To determine which of the following elements is a metal, let’s consider some common examples:
1. Hydrogen (H) – Hydrogen is a non-metal, as it lacks the typical properties of metals. It is the lightest element and is highly flammable.
2. Carbon (C) – Carbon is also a non-metal. It is known for its ability to form covalent bonds, which is a characteristic of non-metals.
3. Oxygen (O) – Oxygen is a non-metal and is essential for the survival of most living organisms. It is a highly reactive element and can form various compounds.
4. Sodium (Na) – Sodium is a metal. It is highly reactive and belongs to the alkali metal group. Sodium is soft and can be easily cut with a knife.
5. Silicon (Si) – Silicon is a metalloid, which means it has properties of both metals and non-metals. It is widely used in the electronics industry and is found in sand and quartz.
Based on the properties and classification of elements, the correct answer to the question “Which of the following elements is a metal?” is sodium (Na). Sodium is a metal with the atomic number 11 and is located in the first group of the periodic table, known as the alkali metals. It is an essential element for various biological processes and is commonly used in the production of sodium chloride, also known as table salt.
