What group of elements is characterized by their ability to conduct electricity and tend to lose electrons in reactions?

The group of elements that is characterized by their ability to conduct electricity and their tendency to lose electrons in chemical reactions is indeed metals. Metals are known for their high electrical conductivity, primarily due to the presence of free-moving electrons that can carry an electrical charge. This property makes them excellent conductors of electricity, which is a fundamental characteristic observed in elements like copper, aluminum, and gold.

In terms of reactivity, metals typically lose electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration. This can lead to the formation of positive ions or cations during chemical reactions. For instance, sodium easily loses an electron to form a sodium ion, reflecting the common behavior of metals in chemical processes.

The other groups mentioned do not exhibit both of these characteristics to the same extent. Nonmetals, while they can conduct electricity in certain states (like in solutions or as gases), primarily tend to gain electrons rather than lose them in reactions. Metalloids have properties of both metals and nonmetals but do not typically show the same level of conductivity or the tendency to lose electrons as metals do. Halogens are a specific group of nonmetals that are highly reactive and tend to gain electrons in reactions to form anions, which is contrary to the behavior described in the question