Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Metalloids are elements that have properties of both metals and non-metals. They can act as a conductor or insulator depending on the conditions.
Related terms
Semiconductors: These are materials, often containing silicon, which can conduct electricity under some conditions but not others, making them a good medium for the control of electrical current.
Boron Group: This is group 13 on the periodic table and includes the metalloid boron.
Silicon: A commonly known metalloid used extensively in computer chips and solar panels due to its semiconductive properties.