Metals and nonmetals are two distinct types of substances that can be distinguished by their physical and chemical characteristics. Metals are elements that are typically hard due to the presence of a strong metallic connection between the atoms. They are good conductors of heat and electricity, and are generally malleable and ductile. Some examples of metals include:

• Copper
• Aluminum
• Gold
• Silver
• Iron

Nonmetals, on the other hand, are generally soft in nature and are poor conductors of heat and electricity. They are brittle and cannot be easily shaped or stretched into wires. Some examples of nonmetals include:

• Oxygen
• Nitrogen
• Sulfur
• Carbon
• Phosphorus

It is important to note that there are also elements that have properties of both metals and nonmetals, known as metalloids. Examples of metalloids include silicon, germanium, and arsenic.