AQA GCSE Chemistry contents

Unit 1 · Atomic Structure & The Periodic Table

Metals, Non-metals & Group 0

1 min read · part of the full Exam Guide

Metals and non-metals

  • Metals are elements that react to form positive ions. Non-metals do not form positive ions
  • Most elements are metals. Metals are on the left and towards the bottom of the table, non-metals on the right and top
  • The dividing line runs as a staircase from boron down to astatine
Property Metals Non-metals
Ions formed positive, by losing electrons negative, by gaining electrons (or share electrons)
Melting and boiling points usually high usually low
Conduct electricity yes no (except graphite)
Appearance shiny, malleable dull, brittle when solid
Oxides basic acidic
  • Metals have few outer shell electrons (1, 2 or 3) which are easily lost; non-metals have outer shells that are nearly full, so they gain or share electrons instead

Full Exam Guide

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In the full topic

  • Metals and non-metals
  • Group 0, the noble gases
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