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FITTER - CITS

LESSON 11 : Metal and non-metal

Objectives

At the end of this lesson you shall be able to
• define the metals and non metals
• state the properties and classification of metal and non metals
• state the difference between metal and non metal.

Introduction of metal

Metal is a diverse and essential material that has played a significant role in human civilization for thousands of
years. Here’s an introduction to metal:
1 Definition: Metals are a class of materials characterized by their ability to conduct electricity and heat, as well
as their typically shiny appearance. They are solid at room temperature (with the exception of mercury) and
have a crystalline atomic structure.
2 Properties:

• Conductivity: Metals are excellent conductors of electricity and heat due to the mobility of electrons within
their atomic structure.
• Malleability and Ductility: Metals can be easily shaped and formed into various shapes without breaking.
Malleability refers to the ability to be hammered or rolled into thin sheets, while ductility refers to the ability
to be drawn into wires.

• Strength: Metals generally possess high strength and stiffness, making them suitable for structural
applications.
• Lustre: Many metals have a shiny, reflective surface known as metallic lustre.

• Density: Metals are typically dense materials with high mass per unit volume.
• Melting Point: Metals have high melting points compared to other materials.
3 Classification: Metals are classified into two main categories:
• Ferrous Metals: Ferrous metals contain iron as their primary constituent. Examples include steel and cast
iron.
• Non-Ferrous Metals: Non-ferrous metals do not contain iron as their primary constituent. Examples in-
clude aluminium, copper, brass, and titanium.
4 Extraction: Metals are often extracted from naturally occurring ores through processes such as mining, smelt-
ing, and refining. These processes involve extracting the metal from its ore and refining it to remove impurities.

5 Applications: Metals have a wide range of applications across various industries and sectors, including
• Construction: Structural frameworks, bridges, and building materials.
• Transportation: Automobiles, aircraft, ships, and trains.
• Manufacturing: Machinery, tools, appliances, and consumer goods.

• Electronics: Electrical wiring, components, and circuitry.
• Aerospace: Aircraft components, engines, and aerospace structures.
• Energy: Power generation, transmission, and storage systems.

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