International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) Chemistry Practice Exam

Which type of elements are located in the top-right corner of the Periodic Table?

1. Metals

2. Non-metals

3. Metalloids

4. Noble gases

The correct answer is: Non-metals

The top-right corner of the Periodic Table contains non-metals, which are characterized by specific properties that distinguish them from metals and metalloids. Non-metals typically have higher electronegativities and ionization energies compared to metals, which makes them more effective at gaining electrons during chemical reactions. They also generally have lower melting and boiling points than metals, with some existing as gases at room temperature, like oxygen and nitrogen. In this region of the Periodic Table, elements such as fluorine and oxygen are found, both of which readily form covalent bonds by sharing electrons. Additionally, non-metals are often poor conductors of heat and electricity due to the lack of free electrons, a stark contrast to metals found on the left side of the table. The other types of elements mentioned do not occupy this specific location in the Periodic Table. For instance, metals are primarily located on the left and in the center, while metalloids are found along the dividing line between metals and non-metals. Noble gases, while also located in the top right corner, specifically form a distinct group and are characterized by their lack of chemical reactivity, setting them apart from the broader category of non-metals. Therefore, identifying non-met