Metals:
* Left side: Most of the elements on the left side of the periodic table are metals. This includes Groups 1 and 2 (alkali and alkaline earth metals), as well as the transition metals in the middle (Groups 3-12).
* Bottom: The lanthanides and actinides at the bottom of the table are also metals.
Nonmetals:
* Right side: Nonmetals are primarily located on the right side of the periodic table. This includes Groups 14-18 (except for the metalloids).
* Top: Hydrogen (H) is considered a nonmetal and sits at the top of the table.
Metalloids:
* Staircase: There's a diagonal line of elements called metalloids that have properties of both metals and nonmetals. These elements are found along the "staircase" separating the metals and nonmetals. Examples include boron (B), silicon (Si), germanium (Ge), arsenic (As), antimony (Sb), tellurium (Te), polonium (Po), and astatine (At).
Helpful Tip: Remember that the periodic table is organized based on recurring patterns of chemical behavior. Metals tend to be shiny, malleable, and good conductors of heat and electricity. Nonmetals are often dull, brittle, and poor conductors.
