Properties of the Basic Metals Element Group

Several groups of elements can be termed metals. Here is look at the location of the metals on the periodic table and their common properties:

Examples of Metals

Most of the elements on the periodic table are metals, including gold, silver, platinum, mercury, uranium, aluminum, sodium, and calcium. Alloys, such as brass and bronze, also are metals.

Location of Metals on the Periodic Table

Metals are located on the left side and the middle of the periodic table. Group IA and Group IIA (the alkali metals) are the most active metals. The transition elements, groups IB to VIIIB, are also considered metals. The basic metals make up the element to the right of the transition metals. The bottom two rows of elements beneath the body of the periodic table are the lanthanides and actinides, which are also metals.

Properties of Metals

Metals, shiny solids, are room temperature (except mercury, which is a shiny liquid element), with characteristic high melting points and densities. Many of the properties of metals, including a large atomic radius, low ionization energy, and low electronegativity, are because the electrons in the valence shell of metal atoms can be removed easily. One characteristic of metals is their ability to be deformed without breaking. Malleability is the ability of a metal to be hammered into shapes. Ductility is the ability of a metal to be drawn into wire. Because the valence electrons can move freely, metals are good heat and electrical conductors.

Summary of Common Properties

• Shiny "metallic" appearance
• Solids at room temperature (except mercury)
• High melting points
• High densities
• Large atomic radii
• Low ionization energies
• Low electronegativities
• Usually, high deformation
• Malleable
• Ductile
• Thermal conductors
• Electrical conductors