In the periodic table, antimony (element symbol Sb) is classified as which type of element based on its metallic and nonmetallic properties?

Introduction / Context:
Elements in the periodic table are broadly classified as metals, nonmetals, and metalloids based on their physical and chemical properties. Knowing which category a particular element belongs to helps predict its behaviour in reactions and in materials science. Antimony, with the symbol Sb, has characteristics that do not fit purely into metal or nonmetal categories, making its classification a common exam question in general chemistry and general knowledge.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Element under discussion: antimony, symbol Sb.
• The options list metal, non metal, non metaloid, and metalloid.
• We focus on standard periodic table classification.
• We consider both physical properties, such as luster, and chemical behaviour.

Concept / Approach:
Metalloids are elements that have properties intermediate between those of metals and nonmetals. They often show metallic luster but are brittle and may behave as semiconductors. Commonly listed metalloids include boron, silicon, germanium, arsenic, antimony, and tellurium. Antimony displays metallic luster and some conductivity but is brittle and does not fully behave like a typical metal such as iron or copper. It also does not show the full range of nonmetal characteristics. Therefore, antimony is classified as a metalloid in standard chemical classification schemes.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall the general definition of metalloids as elements with mixed metallic and nonmetallic properties. Step 2: Remember the commonly cited list of metalloids, which includes elements like silicon, arsenic, and antimony. Step 3: Note that antimony has a shiny appearance but is brittle and often used in alloys and semiconducting materials. Step 4: Compare these properties with those of typical metals or nonmetals and see that antimony does not fit purely in either group. Step 5: Conclude that antimony should be classified as a metalloid and choose this option.

Verification / Alternative check:
Periodic table charts in textbooks often shade metalloids differently and draw a zigzag line separating metals from nonmetals. Antimony is shown on this line and is labelled as a metalloid in most educational resources. In practical use, antimony is alloyed with metals to improve hardness and is also used in some semiconducting applications, behaviours typical of metalloids. These consistent references confirm that metalloid is the correct classification for antimony and not metal or nonmetal alone.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Labeling antimony as a metal would ignore its brittle nature and intermediate behaviour. Calling it a non metal would overlook its metallic luster and partial conductivity. The option non metaloid is not a standard classification term and appears to be a distractor. None of these alternatives correctly captures the intermediate set of properties that define antimony's place in the periodic table. Only metalloid matches the widely accepted classification.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes think that any shiny element must be a metal or that the term metalloid is rarely used and can be ignored. Another pitfall is not paying attention to periodic table diagrams that clearly mark the metalloid region. To avoid these mistakes, remember the core list of metalloids and their typical placement along the dividing line between metals and nonmetals. Recognising that antimony belongs to this special group makes related exam questions straightforward to answer.

Final Answer:
Antimony (Sb) is classified as a metalloid in the periodic table.