Metals

Metals are a group of elements with similar characteristics that include, among others, luster, good electrical conductivity, and good thermal conductivity. Most metals are malleable and ductile and are, in general, denser than the other elements.

Characteristics

Metals are usually described as a lattice of positive ions surrounded by a cloud of delocalized electrons. This is also known as a metallic bond. The electrical conductivity, as well as the absorbance of electric and heat energy, makes metals useful for many purposes.

Types of Metals

Metals can be categorized into several types, including alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, transition metals, post-transition metals, lanthanides, actinides, and metalloids.

Uses of Metals

Metals have been used by humans for thousands of years. Gold and silver, for example, have been used for jewelry and coinage for thousands of years. Other metals, like iron and copper, have been used for tools and weapons.

Health and Environmental Impact

While metals are essential for life, some metals can be toxic or hazardous to health and the environment. For example, lead and mercury are toxic metals that can cause serious health problems.

See Also

• Alloy
• Metalworking
• Metallurgy
• Mineral
• Ore

References

Metals Resources
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