ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery)General Science (GS)Medium
A chemist observes a substance that is a good conductor of electricity, has a high luster, and is malleable. Based on these properties, the substance is most likely a(n):
- Ametalloid
- Bnonmetal
- Cnoble gas
- Dmetal
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. metal
Metals are characterized by their excellent electrical conductivity, high luster (shininess), and malleability (ability to be hammered into thin sheets). These properties are distinct from nonmetals, metalloids, and noble gases.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Metalloids have properties intermediate between metals and nonmetals, but not all three strong metallic properties.
- B. Nonmetals are typically poor conductors, dull, and brittle.
- C. Noble gases are inert, gaseous elements and do not exhibit these physical properties.
Metals
Elements typically characterized by high electrical and thermal conductivity, luster, and ductility/malleability.
- Tend to lose electrons in chemical reactions.
- Located on the left and center of the periodic table.
- Most are solids at room temperature (except mercury).
Memory trick: Metals make magic, Metalloids mix, Nonmetals neg.