The group of elements that share characteristics with both metals and nonmetals are called metalloids or semimetals.

Here's why:

* Metals are typically good conductors of heat and electricity, malleable, ductile, and shiny.

* Nonmetals are generally poor conductors of heat and electricity, brittle, and dull.

Metalloids exhibit properties of both:

* Metallic properties: Some metalloids can conduct electricity, though not as well as metals.

* Nonmetallic properties: Metalloids can be brittle and have a dull appearance.

Examples of metalloids include:

* Boron (B)

* Silicon (Si)

* Germanium (Ge)

* Arsenic (As)

* Antimony (Sb)

* Tellurium (Te)

* Polonium (Po)

Metalloids are often used in semiconductors, electronics, and other specialized applications due to their unique properties.