(a) List in tabular form three chemical properties on the basis of which we can differentiate between a metal and a non-metal. (b) Give reasons for the following: (i) Most metals conduct electricity well. (ii) The reaction of iron (III) oxide $[Fe_2O_3]$ with heated aluminium is used to join cracked machine parts.

Hint

Recall the chemical properties of metals and non-metals, and understand the reasons behind these properties. Apply this knowledge to explain why most metals conduct electricity well and how the reaction between iron (III) oxide and heated aluminium is used to join cracked machine parts.

Quick oral answer

To differentiate between a metal and a non-metal, we can look at their chemical properties. Metals typically react with oxygen to form basic oxides, while non-metals react with oxygen to form acidic oxides. Additionally, metals do not react with cold water, while non-metals also do not react with cold water. Finally, metals do not react with dilute acids, while non-metals also do not react with dilute acids. Most metals conduct electricity well because they have free electrons that can move freely within the metal lattice. The reaction between iron (III) oxide and heated aluminium is used to join cracked machine parts because it produces a large amount of heat, which helps to melt the metal and join the cracked parts together. This process is known as thermite welding.