Classify the following elements as metals, nonmetals, or semimetals: (a) Ti (b) Te (c) Se (d) Sc (e) Si

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Identify the position of each element in the periodic table to determine its classification.

For element (a) Ti, locate it in the periodic table. Titanium (Ti) is found in the transition metals section.

For element (b) Te, locate it in the periodic table. Tellurium (Te) is found in the p-block, near the metalloids.

For element (c) Se, locate it in the periodic table. Selenium (Se) is found in the p-block, among the nonmetals.

For element (d) Sc, locate it in the periodic table. Scandium (Sc) is found in the transition metals section.

For element (e) Si, locate it in the periodic table. Silicon (Si) is found in the p-block, among the metalloids.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Periodic Table Classification

Elements are classified into metals, nonmetals, and semimetals based on their properties and positions in the periodic table. Metals, typically found on the left side and in the center, are good conductors of heat and electricity, while nonmetals, located on the right, are generally poor conductors. Semimetals, or metalloids, exhibit properties of both metals and nonmetals and are found along the zig-zag line separating the two categories.

Properties of Metals

Metals are characterized by their malleability, ductility, and high electrical and thermal conductivity. They tend to lose electrons during chemical reactions, forming positive ions. Common examples include elements like titanium (Ti) and scandium (Sc), which are used in various industrial applications due to their strength and conductivity.

Properties of Nonmetals and Semimetals

Nonmetals, such as tellurium (Te) and selenium (Se), are typically brittle in solid form and do not conduct electricity well. Semimetals, like silicon (Si), have intermediate properties; they can conduct electricity better than nonmetals but not as well as metals, making them essential in semiconductor technology. Understanding these properties helps in classifying elements accurately.

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