Differentiate between metal and non-metal on the basis of their chemical properties.

Metals and non-metals can be differentiated based on their chemical properties. Here are some key distinctions between the two groups:

1. Metallic Character vs. Non-Metallic Character:

. Metals tend to exhibit metallic character, which includes properties like malleability, ductility, high electrical and thermal conductivity, and a shiny luster.
. Non-metals lack metallic character and often have opposite properties, such as brittleness, lack of ductility and malleability, poor electrical and thermal conductivity, and a dull appearance.

2. Electronegativity:
. Metals generally have low electronegativity values, meaning they have a tendency to lose electrons in chemical reactions to form positively charged ions (cations).
. Non-metals have higher electronegativity values, indicating their tendency to gain electrons in chemical reactions to form negatively charged ions (anions).

3. Formation of Oxides:
. Metals typically form basic or alkaline oxides when they react with oxygen. These oxides can neutralize acids and produce basic solutions when dissolved in water.
Non-metals usually form acidic oxides when they react with oxygen. These oxides can acidify water and produce acidic solutions when dissolved.

4. Reaction with Acids:
. Metals react with acids to produce salt and hydrogen gas. For example, the reaction of zinc with hydrochloric acid:
Zn(s) + 2HCl(aq) → ZnCl2(aq) + H2(g)
. Non-metals, with some exceptions like hydrogen, do not typically react with acids.

5. Ion Formation:
. Metals tend to lose electrons to form positively charged ions (cations). For example, sodium (Na) forms Na⁺ ions by losing one electron.
. Non-metals tend to gain electrons to form negatively charged ions (anions). For example, chlorine (Cl) forms Cl⁻ ions by gaining one electron.

6. Corrosion:
. Metals are susceptible to corrosion in the presence of oxygen and moisture. This corrosion often results in the formation of metal oxides.
. Non-metals do not undergo typical corrosion but may undergo other forms of degradation or chemical reactions, depending on the specific non-metal and conditions.
These are some of the fundamental differences in the chemical properties of metals and non-metals. These distinctions play a crucial role in understanding how these elements interact with each other and with other substances in various chemical reactions.