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 PropertiesPhysical 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