Differences between the properties of metals and non-metals
2 marks · EasyThe length of a copper wire needed to connect two points is 5 metres. If a non-metal such as sulfur was used to try to make a wire of the same length for carrying an electric current, would it work? Explain your answer using a physical property of metals and non-metals.
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No, it would not work because sulfur does not conduct electricity, whereas copper does.
Also accept: No; sulfur does not conduct electricity; Sulfur is a non-metal, so it would not allow electric current to pass
Common mistakes: Yes; Sulfur can conduct electricity
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Marking points
M1 · 1 mark · States the answer is 'No' with correct reasoning.
A1 · 1 mark · Explains sulfur (a non-metal) does not conduct electricity, so it cannot carry current like copper (a metal).
Worked solution
No, it would not work because sulfur is a non-metal and does not conduct electricity, while copper is a good conductor of electricity.