NCERT Class 10 Science Science: Chapter 3 — Metals and Non-metals
This chapter, Metals and Non-metals, from NCERT Class 10 Science, delves into the properties that classify elements. It begins by recalling the categorization of elements into metals and non-metals from Class IX. The chapter then explores the physical properties of metals through a series of activities. Students learn about metallic lustre, hardness, malleability (the ability to be beaten into thin sheets), and ductility (the ability to be drawn into wires). Activities demonstrate these properties using samples like iron, copper, aluminium, and magnesium. The text also highlights that metals are good conductors of heat and possess high melting points, with silver and copper being excellent conductors. The chapter sets the stage to investigate electrical conductivity and the properties of non-metals, crucial for understanding chemical reactions and material science in the CBSE curriculum.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 10 |
| Subject | Science |
| Book | Science |
| Chapter | Chapter 3 — Metals and Non-metals |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 4 minutes |
| Word count | 638 |
Learning outcomes
- Identify and describe the physical properties of metals.
- Understand the concepts of metallic lustre, hardness, malleability, and ductility.
- Recognize that metals are generally good conductors of heat.
- Relate the physical properties of metals to their uses in daily life.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Elements | A pure substance consisting only of atoms that all have the same numbers of protons in their atomic nuclei. |
| Metals | Elements that are typically shiny, malleable, ductile, and good conductors of heat and electricity. |
| Non-metals | Elements that lack metallic properties; they are typically poor conductors of heat and electricity. |
| Metallic lustre | The property of metals to have a shining surface in their pure state. |
| Hardness | The resistance of a metal to scratching or indentation. |
| Malleability | The ability of a metal to be beaten or rolled into thin sheets without breaking. |
| Ductility | The ability of a metal to be drawn into thin wires. |
| Conductors of heat | Materials that allow heat to pass through them easily. |
| Melting points | The temperature at which a solid turns into a liquid. |
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Practice questions
- What is meant by metallic lustre? Answer: Metallic lustre is the property of metals to have a shining surface in their pure state.
- Define malleability. Answer: Malleability is the ability of metals to be beaten into thin sheets.
- Define ductility. Answer: Ductility is the ability of metals to be drawn into thin wires.
- Name two metals that are good conductors of heat. Answer: Silver and copper are good conductors of heat.
- Are metals generally hard or soft? Explain. Answer: Metals are generally hard, although the degree of hardness varies from metal to metal.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main physical properties of metals discussed in Chapter 3?
Chapter 3 discusses metallic lustre, hardness, malleability, ductility, and their conductivity of heat.
Which metals are known for their high malleability and ductility?
Gold and silver are the most malleable and ductile metals. Gold is also the most ductile.
Are all metals equally hard?
No, the hardness varies from metal to metal.
Which metals are the best conductors of heat?
Silver and copper are the best conductors of heat among metals.
What property allows metals to be shaped into different forms for cooking vessels?
Malleability and ductility are the properties that allow metals to be given different shapes for making cooking vessels and other items.
What does the activity with the metal wire demonstrate?
The activity with the metal wire demonstrates that metals are good conductors of heat and have high melting points.
Related resources
Important topics
Topics covered
NCERT Class 10 Science — Science — Chapter 3 — Metals and Non-metals. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.