Which of the following best describes the significance of metalloids in the periodic table?

• A. Metalloids are exclusively used as catalysts in chemical reactions.
• B. Metalloids have properties intermediate between metals and nonmetals, making them useful in semiconductors and electronics.
• C. Metalloids are found only in the noble gases group.
• D. Metalloids are the most reactive elements in the periodic table.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that metalloids are elements that have properties intermediate between metals and nonmetals.
2. Recognize that metalloids are not exclusively catalysts, nor are they found only in the noble gases group, and they are not the most reactive elements.
3. Recall that metalloids often exhibit a mix of metallic and nonmetallic characteristics, such as moderate electrical conductivity.
4. Note that this intermediate behavior makes metalloids particularly useful in applications like semiconductors and electronics.
5. Conclude that the best description of metalloids' significance is their intermediate properties and their technological importance in semiconductors.