What are the differences between the two main groups of metals?

The first are the ALKALINE METALS these are the most reactive of all. They are soft, and react vigorously in even cold water. They include sodium, caesium and francium(francium is also radioactive). These do not appear to be shiny as a layer of oxide forms around it, giving it a rather dull texture. However, if you cut through a lump of sodium with a knife (which can be done due to softness, but be CAREFUL or it will blow up in your face) it will be as shiny as any other metal. They conduct heat and electricity well.

The next are the GROUP 2 METALS these are quite reactive, but not as much as group 1. They are slightly stable and react well with oxygen when heated. These are also slightly harder than group 1 metals and are much more chemically stable. E.g. magnesium. They conduct heat and electricity well.

The TRANSITION METALS, these are found in the centre block of the periodic table, which are also known as the "strong metals" almost all of them are colourful in solution, e.g. Copper sulphate (aq) is a brilliant blue colour. They are more stable and include a wide variety of different metals: Iron, Cobalt, Mercury, Gold, Silver, Manganese. They conduct heat and electricity well. Can be stretched and hammered into shape (ductile & malleable)

Now, these are classified as SEMI-METALS, POOR METALS or METALOIDS they posess properties of both metals & non-metals. Some conduct heat and electricity well, while some are insulators. Some can be stretched and hammered into shape (ductile & malleable), whilst others are brittle.

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