Metals are rarely encountered in their elemental state in nature. They must first be extracted from the ground as an ore, which is then treated to release the metal. Some metals may be extracted from their natural state by electrolysis (for example sodium), while others may need more drastic treatment (such as iron or zinc). Precious metals (e.g., gold, silver, platinum) are relatively rare and as a result have a high value in the marketplace.

There are approximately 90 elements that can be described as metals (the number can fluctuate slightly depending upon the precise definition of a metal used to categorize the elements). Regardless, they all have various characteristics in common ranging from bonding to chemical nature.

In general, metals are elements that conduct electricity, are malleable, and are ductile. Another group of elements—the metalloid or semi-metal elements—share some properties with the metals and some...