What are 3 main physical properties of metals?

Three Main Physical Properties of Metals

Here are 3 key physical properties seen in most metallic elements:

1. Luster – Metals are shiny when polished and have a distinctive glow or luster even when unfinished due to their free electron structure.
2. Malleability – Metals are malleable, meaning they can be hammered or pressed into thin sheets without cracking or breaking apart.
3. Conductivity – Metals tend to be very conductive of both electricity and thermal energy. This conductivity arises from their delocalized electrons.

Other common physical properties of metals include ductility, strength, and high density. But the metallic luster, malleability, and conductivity of metals are considered three of the most defining and useful physical properties of metallic elements. These traits make metals extremely important materials in electrical systems, construction, jewelry, and more.