GED Science TestPhysical ScienceMedium
A scientist is studying a newly discovered element and determines that it has a very high melting point, is an excellent conductor of heat and electricity, and can be easily drawn into a wire. Based on these properties, to which general category of elements would this new element most likely belong?
- AMetals
- BMetalloids
- CNonmetals
- DNoble Gases
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Metals
The properties described—high melting point, excellent conductivity of heat and electricity, and ductility (can be drawn into a wire)—are all characteristic features of metals. Nonmetals, metalloids, and noble gases do not typically exhibit this combination of properties.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Metalloids have properties intermediate between metals and nonmetals, but are not excellent conductors like metals.
- C. Nonmetals are typically poor conductors of heat and electricity, have lower melting points, and are brittle, not ductile.
- D. Noble gases are unreactive gases at room temperature, with very low melting points and poor conductivity.
Properties of Metals
Metals are elements characterized by properties such as high electrical and thermal conductivity, malleability, ductility, and typically high melting points.
- Good conductors of heat and electricity
- Malleable (can be hammered into sheets)
- Ductile (can be drawn into wires)
- Lustrous (shiny appearance)
- Solid at room temperature (except mercury)
Memory trick: Metals Conduct, Ductile, Lustrous, Strong.