While scientists categorize the chemical elements as metals, nonmetals, and metalloids largely based on the elements' abilities to conduct electricity at normal temperatures and pressures, there are other distinctions that are taken into account when classifying the elements of the periodic table. The post-transition metals, for example, are metals, but have such special properties that they are given their own classification. The same is true for the metalloids.

Metals and Metalloids, Second Edition presents the current scientific understanding of the physics, chemistry, geology, and biology of these two families of elements, including the post-transition metals and metalloids. Examining how these elements are synthesized in the universe, when and how they were discovered, and where they are found on Earth, this newly updated, full-color resource clearly details how metals and metalloids are used by humans, as well as the resulting benefits and challenges to society, health, and the environment. Metals and Metalloids, Second Edition provides readers with an up-to-date understanding regarding each of the post-transition metals and metalloids and where they may lead us.