| − | A shiny, [[solid]] substance that conducts heat and electricity, such as [[iron]]. They contrast with the [[nonmetal]]s, which are brittle, non-conductive, and dull. It is very difficult, if not impossible, to break metals because of their properties of ductility and malleability. | + | A shiny, [[solid]] substance, such as [[iron]]. They contrast with the [[nonmetal]]s. It is very difficult, if not impossible, to break metals. Except when they are very easy to break, as in the case of [[aluminium]], [[lead]], cast [[iron]], [[tin]], [[copper]], [[gold]], [[silver]], and many others. |