Chapter 6, Problem 29A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The general characteristics of metals needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Metals are elements which can lose its valence electrons to form cation. Some examples of metals are sodium, potassium, magnesium etc. Metals undergo reaction with many compounds such as acid, water etc.

Answer to Problem 29A

Metals are solid at room temperature except mercury and they possess properties like malleability, ductility, sonorous, lustrous and good conductors of heat and electricity.

Explanation of Solution

Metals are lustrous, good conductors of heat and electricity. They have high melting point. They are malleable, that is, they can be beaten into thin sheets. They are ductile, that is, they can be stretched into wires. They are sonorous, that is, they make sound on hitting and opaque, that is, light cannot pass through them. Metals have shiny appearance. They are solid at room temperature except mercury.

Conclusion

Some important properties of metals are malleability, ductility, sonorous, lustrous and good conductors of heat and electricity, opaque etc.