Elements

Elements are the fundamental materials of which all matter is composed. This includes everything from oxygen to iron to gold. Elements are distinguished by their atomic number, which is the number of protons in an atom's nucleus.

Overview

In the Periodic Table, elements are organized based on their atomic number, electron configuration, and recurring chemical properties. Elements are divided into metals, metalloids, and non-metals. Each element has a unique number of protons in its atom's nucleus. The number of protons determines the element's atomic number and its position in the Periodic Table.

Properties of Elements

Each element has unique physical and chemical properties. These properties include the element's atomic number, atomic weight, and electron configuration. The properties of an element can be predicted from its location in the Periodic Table.

Types of Elements

There are currently 118 confirmed elements, of which 94 occur naturally on Earth. The remaining 24 elements are synthetic and have been produced in laboratories.

Metals

Metals are elements that are good conductors of electric and thermal energy and have the ability to reflect light, a property known as luster. Most metals are malleable and ductile, allowing them to be shaped without breaking.

Non-Metals

Non-metals are elements that are poor conductors of heat and electricity. They are not malleable or ductile and do not have the luster of metals. Non-metals can be gases, liquids, or solids at room temperature.

Metalloids

Metalloids are elements that have properties of both metals and non-metals. They are intermediate conductors of heat and electricity.

See Also

• Periodic Table
• Atomic Number
• Atomic Weight
• Electron Configuration

References

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