Physical properties of metals

• Physical Properties of Metals:

1. Physical State: All metals are solids at room temperature.

Exceptions: Mercury and gallium are liquids at room temperature.

1. Lustre: All metals in their pure state have a shine and can be polished to give a highly reflective surface.
2. Malleability: Metals  have  the  ability  to  withstand  high  tensile  strength  and  can  be  made  into  thin  sheets.  This property of metals is called malleability.
3. Ductility: Metals can also be drawn into thin wires. The ability of metals to be drawn into wires is called ductility. Example: Gold and silver are the most ductile metals.
4. Conduction of Heat: Metals are good conductors of heat and have high melting points. Example: Silver and copper are very good conductors of electricity.

Exceptions: Lead and mercury are poor conductors of heat.

1. Conduction of Electricity: Metals are good conductors of electricity.

Example: All electric wires are made of copper.

1. Hardness: Metals are generally hard, and their hardness varies from metal to metal. Alkali metals such as sodium and potassium are soft metals and can be easily cut with a knife.
2. Melting and Boiling Points: Metals usually have high melting and boiling points. Tungsten has the highest melting point whereas sodium and potassium have low melting points.
3. Sonorous: Metals which produce a sound on striking a hard surface are said to be sonorous.