Metals generally exist in the solid state and have a shining surface or luster. However, some metals like mercury are liquid at room temperature, and gallium melts at 30 degrees Celsius. Most metals are hard, but sodium, potassium, rubidium, cesium, mercury, gallium and zinc are soft. Metals can be beaten into thin sheets because they are malleable, and drawn into thin wires because they are ductile, with gold and silver being the most malleable and ductile. Mercury, sodium, potassium and zinc are exceptions as they are not very malleable or ductile.

1. Class- X
Physical Science
Metals: Physical Properties
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INTEGRATED B.SC. B.ED
LOVELY PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY, PHAGWARA

2. Physical State
• Metals generally exist in solid state.

3. Exception
• Hg (liquid at room temp).
• Ga : 30degree Celsius.
• Cs : 28.5 degree Celsius.

4. Luster
• Metals have a shining surface.

5. Exception
• Lead ( dull appearance).

6. Hardness
• Metals are hard in nature.

7. Exception
• Na, K, Rb, Cs, Hg, Ga, Zn
• (soft metals can be cut by knife).

8. Malleable
• Can be beaten into sheets.
• (Au and Ag are more malleable then other metals).

9. Ductile
• Can be drawn into wires.
• (Au and Ag more ductile).
• For example: 2km wire can be drawn from 1g of
Gold.

10. Exception metals for Malleability
and Ductility.
• Hg, Na, K, Zn.

11. Questions
• Que-1. Due to which property of metals are metallic
foils prepared?
• Que-2. Name one metal, which is in liquid state at
room temperature.
• Que-3. Why are metals used for making cooking
vessels?
• Que-4. Metallic wire exist but not wooden wire,
why?