Okay, let's talk metals. Not like Metallica (though they are pretty heavy, a definite metallic property in my book), but the stuff that makes up your pots, pans, and that rusty bike in your garage. What *are* these things, really?
Shiny, Shiny! (Or Maybe Not?)
First up, shininess! Metals are famous for their bling. Think gold, silver, even that well-polished stainless steel fridge. They gleam! It's called luster. But here's my unpopular opinion: not ALL metals are shiny. Have you seen freshly cut sodium? Tarnishes faster than my patience waiting in line at the DMV. So, yeah, luster is a thing, but sometimes it's more of a "sometimes-ter."
Electricity's Best Friends
Next, conductivity. Metals are like the VIPs of electricity. They let electrons zoom through them with the grace of a caffeinated cheetah. That's why your power cords are made of copper (usually). Imagine trying to power your phone with a stick of wood. Yeah, good luck with that. Though, if you could figure that out, call me. I'll write a book about you.
But...and here’s another hot take... plastic, which we use for insulation, is arguably more important! I mean, sure, copper gets the electricity THERE, but plastic is like, "Hold up! Don't electrocute anyone!" Heroes come in many forms, even plasticky ones.
Hammer Time! (and Sheet Metal Adventures)
Malleability and ductility. These are the "Can I smash it into a sheet?" and "Can I stretch it into a wire?" properties. Gold is super malleable; they can make it into ridiculously thin leaves. Copper is ridiculously ductile; they make miles and miles of wires out of that. I once tried to make gold leaf at home. It involved a hammer and a VERY frustrated me. Don't try this at home, kids.
So, they're bendy...ish. Some are. Try bending a cast iron skillet. I dare you. The skillet will win. You'll probably lose a finger. Malleability and ductility: more guidelines than actual rules, in my experience.
Hot Stuff (Literally!)
Heat conductivity! If you've ever burned yourself touching a metal spoon left in a hot pot, you know what I'm talking about. Metals transfer heat like gossip at a high school reunion. It's why cookware is made of metal. It's also why you should probably use oven mitts. Just saying.
"The spoon is a cruel mistress." – Some philosopher, probably burned by a spoon.
Unpopular opinion time again: Sometimes I *want* heat conductivity. Like, when I'm making toast. I’m not complaining about the toaster coils, metal heroes. They get the job done! But when I grab the wrong end of that spoon... Grrr.
Strong...Sometimes.
Strength! Metals are generally pretty tough. Iron, steel, the stuff of bridges and skyscrapers. They can withstand a lot of pressure. Though, if you throw a metal wrench at a glass window, the window will lose. I'm just saying. Don't do that.
But, some metals are total wimps! Lead, for example. It's heavy, but not exactly known for its tensile strength. You wouldn't build a skyscraper out of lead, would you? Unless you *really* hated the people who were going to live there. So, strength...it depends.
Reactivity: The Wild Card
Finally, reactivity. This is how eager a metal is to react with other stuff. Some metals, like gold, are super chill and don't react much at all. That's why gold jewelry lasts forever (ish). Others, like potassium, are basically chemical drama queens. Throw potassium in water and stand back! Big boom! (Don't actually do this. Seriously.)
And honestly, sometimes I wish things were LESS reactive. Like, my car rusting. Nobody wants a rusty car. Unless you're going for that "Mad Max" aesthetic. Then, rust away!
So, there you have it. Metals: shiny(ish), conductive, bendy(ish), strong(ish), and sometimes explodey. They're complicated. Just like life. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go polish my spoon...carefully.
