Question 45

They have intermediate electrical conductivity.

Metalloids are characterized by their ability to conduct electricity at levels between those of metals and nonmetals, which is referred to as intermediate electrical conductivity.

A) They are poor conductors of electricity.

This statement is incorrect because metalloids are not classified as poor conductors. While they do not conduct electricity as well as metals, their conductivity is significantly better than that of nonmetals, placing them in an intermediate category.

B) They are used for electrical wires.

This option is misleading. While metals are primarily used for electrical wires due to their excellent conductivity, metalloids are not typically used for this purpose. Their intermediate conductivity does not make them ideal for applications requiring high conductivity.

C) They are both malleable and ductile.

This statement is incorrect as well. Metalloids generally exhibit brittleness, which limits their malleability and ductility compared to metals. Therefore, they do not possess the typical physical properties associated with malleable and ductile materials.

D) They have intermediate electrical conductivity.

This statement is accurate and reflects a key characteristic of metalloids. Their ability to conduct electricity at intermediate levels distinguishes them from both metals and nonmetals, making this characteristic essential in various applications, especially in semiconductors.

Conclusion

The correct answer, D, captures the defining feature of metalloids, highlighting their unique position on the conductivity spectrum. Options A, B, and C fail to accurately describe metalloids, underscoring the importance of their intermediate electrical conductivity in distinguishing them from other elements.