Question

Distinguish between metals and non metals on the basis of:
(i) ion formation, (ii) discharge of ions, (iii) nature of oxide formed, (iv) oxidizing and reducing property, (v) reaction with acids.

Answer 1

(i) Ion formation: Metals form positive ions by loss of electrons whereas non- metals form
negative ions by gain of electrons.

(ii) Discharge of ions: Metals are discharged at the cathode during electrolysis whereas nonmetals
are liberated at the anode during electrolysis.

(iii) Nature of oxide formed: Oxides of metals are usually basic. Soluble basic oxides dissolve
in water forming an alkaline solution whereas oxides of non-metals are usually acidic.
Soluble acidic oxides dissolve in water forming an acidic solution.

(iv) Oxidizing and reducing property: Metals ionize by loss of electrons and hence are reducing
agents whereas non-metals ionize by gain of electrons and hence are oxidizing agents.

(v) Reaction with acids: Metals above hydrogen in activity series usually replace hydrogen from
dilute non-oxidising acids whereas non-metals do not react with dilute hydrochloric acid
or sulphuric acid.