Classification of Metals

I. Intended Learning Outcomes

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:

 Define metals and differentiate them from other elements on the periodic table.
 Explain the basis for different metal classifications, including:
o Ferrous vs. non-ferrous metals
o Brittle vs. ductile metals
o Refractory metals
o White metals
o Heavy vs. light metals
o Base, noble, and precious metals
 Identify common examples of metals within each classification.
 Analyze the relationship between a metal's properties and its classification, understanding
how its characteristics influence its uses and applications.
 Apply your knowledge to real-world scenarios, such as choosing the right metal for a specific
task based on its classification and properties

II. Introduction

Metals are all around us, from the steel in our buildings to the aluminum in our soda
cans. But did you know that not all metals are created equal? They can be grouped into
different categories based on their physical and chemical properties, each with its own unique
characteristics and applications.

This lesson will delve into the fascinating world of metal classification, exploring the
various systems used to organize these versatile elements. We'll uncover the secrets behind
ferrous and non-ferrous metals, the strength of brittle and ductile metals, the heat resistance
of refractory metals, and the fascinating world of white, heavy, and light metals. We'll also
explore the value-driven classifications of base, noble, and precious metals, understanding
why some metals are considered more valuable than others.

Get ready to embark on a journey of discovery as we unlock the secrets of metal

classification!

III. Learning Process

A. Activity: KWL Chart

Step 1. Write brief statements in the second column (KNOW) about what you know
of the topics listed in the first column.
Topics What I know What I want to What I learned
know
Ferrous vs. Non-
Ferrous
Brittle vs. Ductile
Metals
Refractory Metals
White Metals
Metal Value: Base,
Noble, Preciou

Step 2. Form a group where you can share and discuss what you have written in the
second column. Afterwards, fill-out the third column (WANT).
Step 3. After the group sharing, fill-out the fourth column (LEARNED) with what
you have learned after the group sharing.

B. Analysis: Examining Your Assessment Practices

Instruction: Examine your assessment practices with the guide questions provided.
Write your answers in the space provided below.
 Questions Answer
1. Is the current
classification system for
metals truly effective?
Consider the limitations
of each category and
potential overlaps. Are
there alternative or more
granular classifications
that could be more
useful? How would this
impact our understanding
and utilization of metals?

2. How do the properties

within each metal
classification relate to
each other? For example,
is there a trade-off
between strength and
ductility? Can we predict
other properties based on
a metal's classification?
Analyze the underlying
scientific principles
behind these
relationships.
3. How has our
understanding of metal
classification evolved
over time? Have new
discoveries or
technological
advancements
necessitated changes in
our classification
systems? What might the
future hold for metal
classification,
considering ongoing
research and emerging
fields?

4. Can the principles of

metal classification be
applied to other materials
or elements? Explore the
similarities and
differences between
metals and other
substances. Can we
identify analogous
categories for non-metals
based on their properties
and applications?

5. What are the ethical and

 C. Abstraction
Here is an overview of the classification of metals:
1. Ferrous vs. Non-ferrous metals:
 Ferrous metals: These are metals that contain iron. They are typically strong,
magnetic, and relatively inexpensive. Examples include iron, steel, nickel, and
chromium.
 Non-ferrous metals: These are metals that do not contain iron. They are generally
weaker and less magnetic than ferrous metals, but they can be more corrosion-
resistant, lighter, and better conductors of heat and electricity. Examples include
aluminum, copper, gold, silver, and lead.

Opens in a new window nordholding.bg

Nonferrous metals
2. Brittle vs. Ductile metals:
 Brittle metals: These are metals that break easily when stressed. They are not good for
bending or shaping. Examples include antimony, bismuth, and gallium.

Opens in a new window www.quora.com

Brittle metals
 Ductile metals: These are metals that can be easily bent or shaped without
breaking. They are good for making wires, sheets, and other forms. Examples include
gold, silver, copper, and aluminum.
 Opens in a new window
www.metalsupermarkets.com
Ductile metals
3. Refractory metals:
These are metals that have very high melting points and can withstand extreme temperatures.
They are often used in aerospace applications, such as rocket engines and jet turbines.
Examples include tungsten, tantalum, molybdenum, and niobium.

Opens in a new window www.refractorymetal.org

Refractory metals
4. White metals:
This is a less common classification, but it refers to metals that have a silvery-white
appearance. They are often used for decorative purposes or in jewelry. Examples include
silver, platinum, palladium, and rhodium.

Opens in a new window coreyegan.com

White metals
5. Base, noble, and precious metals:
 Base metals: These are metals that are relatively common and inexpensive. They are
often used in industrial applications. Examples include iron, steel, aluminum, and
copper.

Opens in a new window m.indiamart.com

Base metals
 Noble metals: These are metals that are rare and resistant to corrosion. They are often
used in jewelry, coins, and electronics. Examples include gold, silver, platinum, and
palladium.

Opens in a new window en.wikipedia.org

Noble metals
 Precious metals: These are metals that are both rare and valuable. They are often used
in investments and jewelry. Examples include gold, silver, platinum, and palladium.
 Opens in a new window jrjewelers.com
Precious metals
These are just some of the ways that metals can be classified. The specific classification
system used will depend on the purpose of the classification. For example, an engineer might
be interested in the strength and ductility of a metal, while a jeweler might be interested in its
color and rarity.

D. Application

Name: _____________________________________________ Date: _______________

Course & Year: _____________________________________ Score: ______________

Activity 1. ESSAY (in 500 words)

Instruction: Write an ESSAY about what you’ve learned of Classification of Metals.

4 3 2 1
Criteria Exceeds Meets Needs Unsatisfactory
Expectations Expectations Improvement
1. Organization Clear and logical Mostly organized Lacks clear Disorganized with
and Structure structure; strong with some organization and no clear structure
introduction, inconsistencies; structure
smooth flow, and follows a basic
satisfying structure
conclusion
2. Language and Excellent use of Some use of Lacks consistent Lack of descriptive
Descriptive descriptive descriptive use of descriptive language and
Details language and vivid language and language; relies on meaningful details
details details general statements
3. Character Effective Some Insufficient Characters are
Development development of characterization, character underdeveloped or
 4 3 2 1
Criteria Exceeds Meets Needs Unsatisfactory
Expectations Expectations Improvement
characters; provides but could be further development unclear
insight into developed in places
personalities,
actions, and
motivations
4. Grammar and Strong grammar, Minor errors that do Noticeable errors Numerous errors
Mechanics spelling, and not significantly that affect hindering
punctuation with impact readability readability comprehension
very few or no
errors
Total Points

Activity 2. Quiz
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: _______________
Course & Year: _____________________________________ Score: ______________
Instructions: Choose the best answer for each question.
1. Which of the following metals is NOT classified as ferrous?

A) Iron (magnetic, strong, inexpensive)

B) Steel (alloy of iron and carbon)
C) Nickel (used in coins and batteries)
D) Aluminum (lightweight, good conductor)

2. Which property is most likely to be associated with a brittle metal?

A) Ductility (easily bends without breaking)

B) Malleability (easily hammered into thin sheets)
C) Conductivity (good conductor of heat and electricity)
D) High melting point (resistant to extreme temperatures)
3. What is the main characteristic of refractory metals?

A) Shiny white appearance, often used in jewelry

B) Strong and magnetic, found in abundance in Earth's crust
C) Extremely high melting point, suitable for high-temperature applications
D) Brittle and easily broken, not ideal for structural use

4. Which metal classification system is primarily based on economic value?

A) Ferrous vs. non-ferrous

B) Brittle vs. ductile
C) Refractory metals
D) Base, noble, and precious metals

5. Which metal would you be most likely to find in a rocket engine nozzle?

A) Silver (soft, malleable, good conductor)

B) Tungsten (very high melting point, refractory metal)
C) Aluminum (lightweight, abundant, good conductor)
D) Copper (corrosion-resistant, ductile, used in wires)

Answer Key:

1. D) Aluminum
 2. D) High melting point

3. C) Extremely high melting point, suitable for high-temperature applications

4. D) Base, noble, and precious metals

5. B) Tungsten

V. References

Ferrous vs. Non-ferrous metals:

 American Society for Metals. (2023, March 1). Ferrous
Metals. https://dl.asminternational.org/handbooks/edited-volume/14/Properties-and-
Selection-Nonferrous-Alloys-and
 National Geographic Society. (2019, October 31). Ferrous and Non-Ferrous
Metals. https://www.nationalgeographic.co.uk/topic/subjects/science-and-
technology/metals
Brittle vs. Ductile metals:
 Britannica. (2023, September
28). Ductility. https://www.britannica.com/science/ductility-physics
 ThoughtCo. (2023, October 27). The Difference Between Brittle and Ductile
Materials. https://www.difference.minaprem.com/solid/difference-between-ductile-
material-and-brittle-material/
Refractory metals:
 ASM International. (2023, July 11). Refractory
Metals. https://dl.asminternational.org/handbooks/edited-volume/49/chapter/
595229/Refractory-Metals-and-Alloys
 Engineers Edge. (2023, October 25). Refractory
Metals. https://thermic-edge.com/products/refractory-metals-2/
White metals:
 Wissenburg, A. (2023, September 14). What is White
Metal? https://www.quora.com/What-are-white-metal-bearing
 AZoMining. (2013, March 18). White Metals - Processing, Applications &
Future. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_metal
Base, noble, and precious metals:
 Investing.com. (2023, October 26). Base Metals vs. Precious
Metals. https://www.sbcgold.com/blog/important-difference-precious-metals-base-
metals/
 World Bank. (n.d.). Base
metals. https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/energy/publication/minerals-and-metals-
to-play-significant-role-in-a-low-carbon-future