Which property differentiates metalloids from metals and nonmetals?

• A. Metalloids are excellent conductors of heat and electricity.
• B. Metalloids are completely nonreactive with other elements.
• C. Metalloids have intermediate electrical conductivity between metals and nonmetals.
• D. Metalloids are malleable and ductile like metals.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the three categories of elements: metals, nonmetals, and metalloids, each with distinct physical and chemical properties.
2. Recall that metals are generally good conductors of heat and electricity, malleable, and ductile, while nonmetals are poor conductors and often brittle.
3. Recognize that metalloids have properties that are intermediate between metals and nonmetals, especially in terms of electrical conductivity.
4. Identify that the key distinguishing property of metalloids is their intermediate electrical conductivity, meaning they conduct electricity better than nonmetals but not as well as metals.
5. Conclude that the correct differentiating property is that metalloids have intermediate electrical conductivity between metals and nonmetals.