Grade 8 → Metals and Nonmetals ↓
Uses of metals and non-metals in daily life
Metals and nonmetals play important roles in our everyday lives. Both have different properties that make them suitable for specific applications. It is important to understand how we use these materials, as this gives us insight into how nature and technology collaborate to improve our quality of life.
Metals in daily life
Metals are known for properties such as conductivity, malleability, ductility and hardness. These properties make them quite valuable in various fields. Let us learn about some of the common uses of metals in our everyday activities.
1. Construction and infrastructure
Metals are widely used in the construction industry. Metals such as iron and steel are fundamental in the construction of buildings, bridges and railways, as they provide strength and stability. Reinforced concrete, which is a mixture of concrete and steel bars known as "rebar", allows buildings to withstand tension and compression.
2. Transportation
Metals play a vital role in transportation. Vehicles such as cars, airplanes, trains and ships are primarily made of aluminum and steel. Aluminum is preferred for its lightness, which reduces fuel consumption, while steel is valued for its strength and durability.
3. Electronics and electrical uses
Metals such as copper, gold and silver are excellent conductors of electricity and are widely used in electrical and electronic applications. Copper wiring is ubiquitous for electrical wiring in homes due to its economical cost and conductivity.
Cu: Copper Wire
4. Kitchen utensils
Stainless steel, an alloy of iron with chromium and nickel, is a popular choice for making kitchen utensils, cutlery and cookware. Its resistance to rust and scratches makes it ideal for frequent use in cooking.
5. Jewellery
Jewelry is made from precious metals such as gold, silver and platinum. Their lustrous appearance and non-reactive properties make them ideal for ornaments and decoration. The term "karat" is often used to denote the purity of gold.
6. Industrial applications
Metals such as titanium and nickel are used in industries to make machinery, tools, and equipment. Their heat resistance and strength make them invaluable for manufacturing and production.
Nonmetals in daily life
Nonmetals differ from metals because they are poor conductors of electricity and heat. In solid form they are generally more brittle, but their unique properties allow them to play important roles in various aspects of life.
1. Medical and health
Non-metals such as carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen form the building blocks of life. Elements such as iodine are used in antiseptics, while chlorine is used in water treatment for its disinfectant properties.
2. Stationery
Graphite, a form of carbon, is the main component of pencils. Its ability to leave a mark on paper without smudging makes it perfect for writing.
3. Fuel
Non-metals such as hydrogen and carbon are the basic components of most fuels. Fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas power homes, industries and vehicles around the world. In recent years, hydrogen fuel cells have become a promising alternative energy source.
4. Agriculture
Essential non-metals like nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium help in plant growth. They are provided through fertilizers to increase crop yield and ensure food security.
5. Plastics and polymers
Non-metals are integral parts of making plastics and polymers. Polymers are long chains of molecules, composed primarily of carbon, often with hydrogen, oxygen and other chemicals. Their versatility makes them suitable for a wide range of applications, from packaging to clothing.
6. Environment
Non-metals such as nitrogen and oxygen make up the bulk of the Earth's atmosphere. Oxygen is important for respiration in living organisms, while nitrogen is essential for plant nutrition.
Understanding how metals and nonmetals are used in everyday life gives us a greater understanding of the physical world and the complex balance that exists between natural resources and human innovation.