Which of the following best describes the characteristics of metalloids on the periodic table?

• A. They are excellent conductors of electricity and heat.
• B. They are generally malleable and ductile.
• C. They have properties intermediate between metals and nonmetals.
• D. They are highly reactive and form acidic oxides.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that metalloids are elements found along the 'stair-step' line on the periodic table, which separates metals and nonmetals.
2. Recall that metals are typically good conductors of electricity and heat, malleable, and ductile, while nonmetals are poor conductors and often brittle.
3. Recognize that metalloids exhibit properties that are intermediate between metals and nonmetals, meaning they can have some metallic and some nonmetallic characteristics.
4. Note that metalloids are not generally excellent conductors like metals, nor are they highly reactive forming acidic oxides like some nonmetals.
5. Conclude that the best description of metalloids is that they have properties intermediate between metals and nonmetals.