Table of Contents
What is the Definition of an Element? ;
An element is a substance that cannot be decomposed into simpler substances by chemical means.
How Were Elements Discovered?
The elements were discovered over time by studying the various properties of materials. For example, when heated, different materials will change color. The elements were discovered by observing these changes and then trying to identify the materials that were responsible for them.
Geochemical Classification of Elements
The geochemical classification of elements is a system that organizes elements based on their chemical and physical properties. Elements are classified into three categories: metals, metalloids, and nonmetals.
Metals are elements that are shiny, ductile, and malleable. They are good conductors of electricity and heat. Metalloids are elements that have some metallic properties, but also some nonmetallic properties. Nonmetals are elements that are poor conductors of electricity and heat. They are typically brittle and non-shiny.
