metalóides

Metalloids, also known as semimetals, are chemical elements that have properties in between those of metals and nonmetals. They are typically found on the zigzag line that separates metals from nonmetals on the periodic table. The number of metalloids can vary depending on the classification system used, but the most commonly recognized metalloids are boron, silicon, germanium, arsenic, antimony, and tellurium. Polonium and astatine are sometimes also included.

Metalloids share some characteristics with both metals and nonmetals. For instance, they often exhibit a metallic luster, similar to metals, but are generally poorer conductors of heat and electricity than metals. They can be brittle and have a relatively high melting and boiling points. Chemically, metalloids tend to behave more like nonmetals, often forming covalent bonds. Silicon and germanium, for example, are semiconductors, meaning their electrical conductivity can be controlled and is crucial for the electronics industry. Arsenic and antimony are used in alloys and as dopants in semiconductors. Boron is used in glass and ceramics.