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

Chemical Properties of Metals:

Metals have certain chemical properties that distinguish them from non-metals.

Reaction with Oxygen: Metals react with oxygen to form metal oxides. These oxides are generally basic in nature. For example, when iron reacts with oxygen, it forms iron oxide (Fe2O3), which is a basic oxide.

Reaction with Water: Some metals react with water to form metal hydroxides and release hydrogen gas. This reaction is more prominent with alkali metals like sodium and potassium. For example, when sodium reacts with water, it forms sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and releases hydrogen gas.

Reaction with Acids: Metals react with acids to form metal salts and release hydrogen gas. The reactivity of metals with acids varies. For example, zinc reacts with hydrochloric acid to form zinc chloride (ZnCl2) and releases hydrogen gas.

Displacement Reactions: Metals can displace other metals from their salt solutions. A more reactive metal can displace a less reactive metal from its salt solution. This displacement reaction is based on the reactivity series of metals.

Chemical Properties of Non-metals:

Non-metals also have distinct chemical properties that set them apart from metals.

Reaction with Oxygen: Non-metals react with oxygen to form non-metal oxides. These oxides are generally acidic or neutral in nature. For example, when carbon reacts with oxygen, it forms carbon dioxide (CO2), which is an acidic oxide.

Reaction with Water: Non-metals generally do not react with water. However, some non-metals like chlorine and bromine can react with water under specific conditions.

Reaction with Acids: Non-metals do not react with acids to produce hydrogen gas. Instead, they may react with acids to form different compounds depending on the specific non-metal and acid involved.

Electronegativity: Non-metals have a higher electronegativity compared to metals. This means that non-metals have a greater tendency to gain electrons and form negative ions.

Metals and non-metals exhibit different chemical properties. Metals tend to form basic oxides, react with water and acids, and can displace other metals from their salt solutions. Non-metals, on the other hand, form acidic or neutral oxides, have limited reactivity with water and acids, and have a higher electronegativity.