Elements that possess both metallic and nonmetallic properties are referred to as?

Elements that exhibit both metallic and nonmetallic properties are known as metalloids. These elements typically have a blend of characteristics from both metals and nonmetals, which allows them to behave differently depending on the conditions. For example, metalloids tend to be semiconductors, which means they can conduct electricity better than nonmetals but not as well as metals. This property makes them particularly valuable in the electronics industry, such as in the manufacture of semiconductors used in various devices.

The other groups mentioned, such as halogens, noble gases, and alkali metals, have distinct traits that do not encompass a mix of metallic and nonmetallic properties. Halogens are highly reactive nonmetals, noble gases are inert nonmetals with complete valence shells, and alkali metals are highly reactive metallic elements found in Group 1 of the periodic table. Each of these categories represents a specific type of element that does not share the dual nature of metalloids.