Question

Silicon is a metalloid because ______.

Options

• its valency is 4

• it has three electron shells

• it shows properties of both metals and non-metals

• it is a liquid metal

Answer 1

Silicon is a metalloid because it shows properties of both metals and non-metals.

Explanation:

A metalloid is defined by its mixed properties, not its electron configuration. Silicon is classified as a metalloid because it behaves like a metal by having a shiny, metallic luster, but behaves like a non-metal because it is brittle and acts as a poor conductor of electricity at room temperature.