Class 7 Science - TAMILNADU

The World of Metals and Non-metals

The chapter 'The World of Metals and Non-metals' in Class 7 Science introduces students to the fascinating classification of elements based on their physical and chemical properties. Students will learn how to distinguish between metals like iron, copper, and aluminum, and non-metals like carbon, sulfur, and oxygen. The chapter covers important characteristics such as malleability, ductility, electrical and thermal conductivity, and sonority. Understanding these properties is crucial as it forms the foundation for studying chemical reactions in higher classes. This chapter carries significant weight in Tamil Nadu Samacheer Kalvi board exams through objective and descriptive questions.

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Key Concepts

Physical Properties of Metals

Metals are generally hard, lustrous (shiny), malleable, ductile, good conductors of heat and electricity, and sonorous.

Physical Properties of Non-metals

Non-metals are soft, non-lustrous, brittle, poor conductors of heat and electricity, and non-sonorous.

Malleability and Ductility

Malleability is the property of metals to be beaten into thin sheets, while ductility is the ability to be drawn into wires.

Conduction of Heat and Electricity

Metals allow heat and electricity to pass through them easily, whereas non-metals (except graphite) do not.

Uses of Metals and Non-metals

Metals are used in making machinery, utensils, and wires, while non-metals are essential for life (oxygen), breathing, and fertilizers.

Important Formulas

Iron + Oxygen + Water -> Iron oxide (Rust)
Magnesium + Oxygen -> Magnesium oxide
Metal + Acid -> Salt + Hydrogen gas

Board Exam Info

In the Tamil Nadu (Samacheer Kalvi) Class 7 Science exams, this chapter typically carries around 6 to 8 marks. Questions frequently appear as fill-in-the-blanks, matching the following, give reasons (e.g., why wires are made of copper), and short-answer questions differentiating metals and non-metals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are copper and aluminum used for making electrical wires?

Copper and aluminum are used because they are excellent conductors of electricity and are ductile enough to be drawn into thin wires.

Are all metals solid at room temperature?

No, most metals are solid, but mercury is a unique metal that remains in a liquid state at room temperature.

Why is sodium stored in kerosene?

Sodium is an extremely reactive metal that catches fire when it comes into contact with air and moisture, so it is stored in kerosene to prevent accidents.

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