Which classification best describes silicon on the periodic table?

• A. Metalloid
• B. Nonmetal
• C. Metal
• D. Noble gas

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the classification categories on the periodic table: metals, nonmetals, metalloids, and noble gases. Metals are typically good conductors, malleable, and ductile. Nonmetals are poor conductors and often gases or brittle solids. Metalloids have properties intermediate between metals and nonmetals. Noble gases are inert gases found in Group 18.
2. Step 2: Locate silicon on the periodic table. Silicon is found in Group 14 and Period 3, positioned between metals and nonmetals.
3. Step 3: Analyze the properties of silicon. Silicon exhibits characteristics of both metals and nonmetals, such as semiconducting behavior and moderate electrical conductivity.
4. Step 4: Based on its position and properties, classify silicon as a metalloid, since it has intermediate properties and is commonly recognized as such in chemistry.
5. Step 5: Confirm that silicon is not a noble gas (which are inert and in Group 18), not a pure metal (which are typically on the left and center of the table), and not a nonmetal (which are usually on the right side excluding metalloids).