Where are metalloids located on the periodic table?

• A. Along the staircase-shaped boundary between metals and nonmetals
• B. In the noble gas group on the far right
• C. In the transition metal block in the center
• D. In the far left column of the periodic table

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the periodic table is divided into metals, nonmetals, and metalloids based on their properties.
2. Recall that metalloids have properties intermediate between metals and nonmetals, so they are located between these two groups.
3. Identify the 'staircase' or zigzag line on the periodic table that separates metals on the left from nonmetals on the right.
4. Recognize that metalloids are found along this staircase-shaped boundary, acting as a dividing line between metals and nonmetals.
5. Confirm that metalloids are not located in the noble gas group (far right), transition metals (center block), or far left column (alkali metals).