How do metals and non-metals differ in chemical reactivity?

Metals and non-metals differ in chemical reactivity based on their tendency to lose or gain electrons during reactions.

Metals are generally more reactive than non-methals because they have a tendency to lose electrons and form positive ions, a process known as oxidation. This is due to the structure of their atoms. Metals have few electrons in their outermost shell, and these can be easily removed. The ease with which a metal can lose its outermost electrons and form positive ions determines its reactivity. For example, alkali metals like sodium and potassium are very reactive because they have only one electron in their outermost shell, which is easily lost.

On the other hand, non-metals are less reactive because they have a tendency to gain electrons and form negative ions, a process known as reduction. Non-metals have more electrons in their outermost shell, closer to achieving a stable electron configuration. The reactivity of a non-metal is determined by how easily it can gain electrons to achieve this stable configuration. For instance, halogens like fluorine and chlorine are very reactive non-metals because they need only one more electron to achieve a stable electron configuration.

It's also worth noting that the reactivity of both metals and non-metals can be influenced by other factors, such as the presence of water or oxygen, and the temperature and pressure conditions. For example, iron reacts slowly with oxygen in the air to form rust, but the reaction can be sped up by increasing the temperature or the concentration of oxygen.

In summary, the chemical reactivity of metals and non-metals is determined by their atomic structure and the ease with which they can lose or gain electrons. Metals tend to be more reactive due to their propensity to lose electrons, while non-metals are generally less reactive due to their tendency to gain electrons.