What are the major differences between metals and non-metals?
Solution
Short Answer
Metal |
Non-metal |
Metals have a strong tendency to lose electrons to form cations. Thus, metal is strong reducing agent. |
Non-metals have a strong tendency to accept electrons to form the anion. Thus, non-metal are the strong oxidising agent. |
Metal have low ionization enthalpies. |
Non-metal have high ionization enthalpies. |
Less negative electron gain enthalpies. |
High negative electron gain enthalpies. |
Metal have low electronegativity. |
Non-metal have high electronegativity. |
Metal have less negative electron gain enthalpies. |
Non-metal high negative electron gain enthalpies. |
Metal forms a basic oxide and ionic compounds. |
Non-metal forms acidic oxides and covalent compounds. |