Most of the elements in the periodic table are metals. In fact, metals make up about 80% of all the elements, with nonmetals making up the remaining 20%. Metals are typically characterized by their shiny appearance, high density, and good electrical and thermal conductivity. Nonmetals, on the other hand, are typically characterized by their dull appearance, low density, and poor electrical and thermal conductivity.

The periodic table is arranged in such a way that elements with similar properties are grouped together. For example, all of the alkali metals (Group 1) are highly reactive and have one valence electron. All of the alkaline earth metals (Group 2) are also highly reactive, but have two valence electrons.

The periodic table can be a very useful tool for understanding the properties of elements and how they react with each other. By knowing the group an element belongs to, you can often predict its chemical properties.