Metalloid

Definition

Metalloids are elements with properties intermediate between metals and nonmetals. They can exhibit characteristics of both categories depending on the conditions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Metalloids are found along the staircase line on the periodic table, separating metals and nonmetals.
2. Common metalloids include boron, silicon, germanium, arsenic, antimony, and tellurium.
3. They often have semiconducting properties, making them valuable in electronics.
4. Metalloids can form alloys with metals and covalent compounds with nonmetals.
5. They typically have a metallic luster but are brittle and not as conductive as true metals.

Review Questions

• Where are metalloids located on the periodic table?
• Name three common metalloids and one use for each.
• What is one key property that distinguishes metalloids from both metals and nonmetals?

Related terms

Semiconductor: A material that has electrical conductivity between that of a conductor and an insulator; often made using metalloids like silicon.

Alloy: A mixture of two or more elements, where at least one is a metal, which can include metalloid components to enhance properties.

Periodic Table: A tabular arrangement of elements ordered by increasing atomic number; it shows periodic trends in element properties.