Uses of metals and non metals

Metals

Iron

Iron is mainly used in the form of steel, an alloy in which the major component is iron. Steel is used for making buckets, drain pipes, chains, etc. As it is extremely tough and it can withstand stress and has high melting point.

Lead

It is used for making containers for corrosive liquids and protective screens for X-ray and other harmful radiations as it is unaffected by impure water, steam or dilute mineral acids and has low melting point (337°C). It is used in the automobile batteries.

Magnesium

It is used in fireworks because it burns with dazzling white flame. It is used as a reducing agent in the extraction of metals.

Aluminium 

Due to its light weight, it is used for the manufacture of aircraft and automobiles. It is used to make electric transmission cables and for making utensils and novelty articles.

Zinc

It is used for galvanizing iron to protect it from rusting and as cathode container in making dry cells.

Copper

It is used as electric transmission wires, electrical goods, in electroplating and electro-typing. It is also used for making printed circuit boards and electronic devices. Copper salts are largely used as insecticides.

Non-metals

Oxygen 

It helps in the process of respiration and combustion and  medical and industrial uses.

Hydrogen

It is an excellent non polluting fuel and to fill weather observation balloons and gas bags for airships.

Sulphur

Sulphur powder is an excellent insecticide and fungicide. It is used to make the natural rubber hard for making tyres.

Nitrogen 

It dilutes the activity of oxygen in air. It is used in preserving food and biological specimens

Iodine

Iodides are used in medicine and photography. It is used in the manufacture of tincture of iodine.