Which statement about metals and nonmetals is correct?

• A. Metals tend to lose electrons to form cations, while nonmetals tend to gain electrons to form anions.
• B. Metals usually have low melting points, while nonmetals have high melting points.
• C. Nonmetals are typically malleable and ductile, while metals are brittle.
• D. Metals are generally poor conductors of electricity, while nonmetals are good conductors.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the general properties of metals and nonmetals. Metals tend to lose electrons during chemical reactions, forming positively charged ions called cations.
2. Step 2: Recognize that nonmetals tend to gain electrons during chemical reactions, forming negatively charged ions called anions.
3. Step 3: Recall that metals usually have high melting points and are malleable and ductile, meaning they can be shaped without breaking.
4. Step 4: Note that nonmetals generally have lower melting points compared to metals and are often brittle rather than malleable or ductile.
5. Step 5: Remember that metals are good conductors of electricity due to the presence of free-moving electrons, whereas nonmetals are typically poor conductors.