What term describes chemical elements, such as silicon and boron, that display a combination of properties intermediate between typical metals and typical non-metals?

Explanation

Metalloids are chemical elements, including silicon and boron among others, that display a combination of physical and chemical properties intermediate between typical metals and typical non-metals, such as having some ability to conduct electricity, though generally not as effectively as true metals. This intermediate conductivity is part of why certain metalloids, particularly silicon, are so valuable in electronics as semiconductor materials, since their conductivity can be precisely controlled and adjusted. On the periodic table, metalloids are typically found along a diagonal boundary region separating the metals from the non-metals. Explore more Everyday Science MCQs on mcqstutor to keep practicing.