Experiment: Testing the physical properties of metals and non-metals

Aim:To examine the physical properties of metals and non-metals

Materials: aluminium foil, carbon rod taken from a torch cell, copper foil, gas jars of oxygen, hydrogen; sulpher, magnesium ribbon, zinc, iron nail, sandpaper, burner, three 1.5v cells, connecting wires, lamp.

Method

Conductivity experiment. Image credit ekshiksha.org

1. Examine each element taking note of its colour, malleability. Use sand paper to clean the materials before looking at them
2. Set up a circuit as shown in the diagram above
3. Test the conductivity of each material

Observation/Results

• The metals are shiny/Have a lustre after they are cleaned
• The non metals are dull in appearance
• The metals conduct heat and electricity well

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