12 Properties of Metals | With Suitable Examples

Metals are substances that we see in daily life, like keys, chains, jewelry, etc.

They have properties different than non-metals.

There are many types of metals in nature that man in daily life widely uses.

Some major examples include iron, aluminum, copper, zinc, mercury, sodium, lead, etc.

Properties of Metals

Physical properties

1. Hardness

• Metals are very hard by nature (except for a few, like mercury) and cannot be easily torn or broken.

• This makes it more durable and hence can be used for long-standing needs like building construction, bridge construction, etc.

• Metals like iron and aluminum are widely used in making heavy machines and also constructions.

2. Density & Weight

• Metals have very high density.

• Hence, a small size of metal would have more weight than compared to other materials.

3. Tensile strength

• Metals have good tensile strength and can be molded into different shapes.

4. Luster

• Metals have shiny surfaces.

• Hence, metals like gold, silver, platinum, and copper are heavily used in decorative jewelry.

• Their powders are added to make metallic paints.

5. Insoluble

• Metals are insoluble in water or any other solvents.

• Their oxides are soluble in acids and water.

6. Corrode

• Metals tend to get oxidized when exposed to air and get rust. Due to corrosion, they get destroyed over time.

7. Conductivity

• Metals are good conductors of heat and electricity. Hence, metals like copper, silver, aluminum, etc., are used for making electric wires.

8. High melting points

• Metals have a high melting point. Hence, they appear to be heat resistant.

• Due to their high melting points and hardness, they are used to make automobile engines.

9. Stretching, ductility and malleability

• Most metals show the property of expansion on heating.

• This feature helps in other uses like thermostats, forming desired shapes, etc.

• They can be pulled into thin wires due to ductility property.

• Besides, they can also be cut into thin films or sheets due to malleability.

Chemical properties

1. High molecular weights:

• Metals have a high atomic number and also atomic weight.

2. Metallic oxides

• All metals can form oxides upon reacting with oxygen.

• These oxides are alkaline in nature and have a high pH above 7 when dissolved in water.

• Examples are calcium oxide, aluminum oxide, ferric oxide, potassium oxide, etc.

3. They react with acids.

• Metals react with acids and get eroded slowly.

4. Free electrons:

• Metals have free electrons in the outermost shells.

• Hence, they readily give out electrons and tend to form ionic bonds.

Also, see Facts About Metals.