Metalloid: Semi-metal

1. The Periodic Table divides the elements into metals (on the left) and non-metals (on the right of the Periodic Table).
2. The dividing line between metals and non-metals run diagonally through the Periodic Table.
3. The elements that are located close to the line are called metalloids or semimetals. They have both the properties of metal and non-metals.
4. The metalloids in the Periodic Table are boron(B), silicon(Si), germanium(Ge), arsenic(As), antimony(Sb), tellurium(Te) and polomium(Po).
5. The metalloids such as silicon and germanium are used in the semiconductor which makes "chips" for computers, television, video recorders, calculators and refrigerators. Silicon is also used to make solar cells (for changing sunlight into electricity), laser(for compact disc player) and light metals (for camera).