Differences between the properties of metals and non-metals

2 marks · Hard

Hydrogen is found in Group 1 of the Periodic Table but is not a typical metal. Use examples to describe one way in which its electrical conductivity is different from most metals.

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Hydrogen does not conduct electricity, unlike most metals which are good electrical conductors.

Also accept: Unlike metals, hydrogen does not conduct electricity.; Metals such as copper conduct electricity but hydrogen does not.

Common mistakes: Saying hydrogen conducts electricity; Not giving an example metal for contrast

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Marking points

B1 · 1 mark · States that hydrogen does not conduct electricity.

B2 · 1 mark · Uses a metal as an example that does conduct electricity (e.g., copper).

Worked solution

Hydrogen is not a metal and does not conduct electricity. For example, copper, a typical metal, is a very good conductor of electricity, but hydrogen does not allow electricity to flow.