Metals are the majority of elements in the periodic table. Nonmetals are located in the upper right corner of the periodic table. Elements between metals and nonmetals are called semimetals
Elements are divided into metals, metalloids and nonmetals based on shared properties. Metals are shiny, good conductors, form alloys and have basic oxides. Metalloids are metallic-looking, semiconductors with amphoteric oxides. Nonmetals are dull, poor conductors, form acidic oxides
Bluing creates protective black oxide coating on steel to prevent rust. Process forms magnetite (Fe3O4) instead of easily flaking red oxide (Fe2O3). Black oxide provides minimal protection unless treated with oil
Refractory metals are exceptionally heat and wear resistant materials. Common definition includes five elements: niobium, molybdenum, tantalum, tungsten, rhenium. Elements must have melting points above 2000°C
Thermal conductivity (k) measures heat transfer through materials by conduction. Most materials are nearly homogeneous, so k = k(T). Thermal conductivity increases with temperature and temperature difference. Solids have highest conductivity, followed by liquids, then gases
Commodities are basic goods traded in large volumes for immediate or future delivery. Commodities markets deal in metals and soft items like cocoa, coffee, and oil. Commodities are categorized into metals, energy, livestock, and agricultural products