Back to Science on Exam Trends
Metals & Non-metals
High trendapprox. 6 marksSections A/B/C — reactivity-series MCQs, displacement and equation writing, and a metallurgy or ionic-bonding short answer.
CBSE 2027 — dates, rules and official papers →Ask the tutor1Always balance chemical equations and include state symbols — (s), (l), (g), (aq) — boards routinely deduct half a mark for a missing state symbol or an unbalanced equation.
Notesformulae · proofs · mind-map — one view
Learn the 7 conceptsteach yourself first, then practise each
Physical properties of metals vs non-metals (lustre, malleability, ductility, conduction — with the exceptions)1–2 marks Visual
Differentiate the two classes and quote an exception (mercury is liquid, iodine is lustrous, graphite conducts).
Reactivity series (K > Na > Ca > Mg > Al > Zn > Fe > Pb > H > Cu > Ag > Au)1–3 marks Visual
Predict displacement and decide reaction with water/acids and extraction route.
Reactions of metals — with O₂, water, acids & salt solutions (displacement)2–3 marks
Write balanced equations and predict products in reaction-based questions.
Ionic (electrovalent) bond & properties of ionic compounds (e.g. Na → Na⁺ + e⁻)2–3 marks
Explain electron transfer and justify high melting point / conductivity in molten state.
Extraction of metals — roasting, calcination, reduction, electrolytic refining3–5 marks Visual
Sequence the metallurgy steps for a given ore and its reactivity.
Corrosion & its prevention (rusting needs both air and moisture)1–3 marks
State rusting conditions and prevention methods (galvanisation, painting, oiling).
Alloys1–5 marks
State what an alloy is and why metals are alloyed — steel (iron + carbon), stainless steel (+ nickel, chromium); an amalgam when mercury is one metal.
When you’re ready — practise or test the whole topic