Which term describes an element with properties that fall between those of metals and nonmetals?

• A. Metalloid
• B. Metal
• C. Non metal
• D. Ionic bond

Answer: (A)

Metalloids are elements that have properties between metals and nonmetals. They sit along the border between the two groups on the periodic table, often forming a “staircase.” These elements can be shiny like metals but are brittle like nonmetals, and many act as semiconductors, meaning their ability to conduct electricity can be adjusted by adding small amounts of other elements. This combination of characteristics makes metalloids the best descriptor for elements with intermediate properties, such as silicon and germanium.

Metal describes elements that are typically highly conductive, malleable, and shiny. Nonmetal describes elements that are usually poor conductors and can be brittle or gaseous. An ionic bond is a type of chemical bond, not a term describing an element’s properties.