Look at the position on the periodic table for each element tested in this lab. Write a general statement describing the position of metals, nonmetals, and metalloids on the periodic table.

A. Metals are on the left, nonmetals on the right, and metalloids in between.
B. Metals are on the right, nonmetals on the left, and metalloids in between.
C. Metals are on the top, nonmetals on the bottom, and metalloids in between.
D. Metals are on the bottom, nonmetals are on the top, and metalloids in between.

Metals are located on the left side, nonmetals on the right side, and metalloids in between on the periodic table. The correct answer to the student's question is option 'a).'

Explanation:

According to the organization of the periodic table, metals, nonmetals, and metalloids occupy specific areas. Metals are found on the left side of the periodic table, showcasing properties such as being lustrous, good conductors of heat and electricity, ductile, and malleable. In contrast, nonmetals are located on the far right-hand side, and generally, they are poor conductors of heat and electricity, dull, and brittle if solid. Between these two groups lie the metalloids, which have properties intermediate between metals and nonmetals. The correct general statement describing the position of metals, nonmetals, and metalloids on the periodic table is: 'a) Metals are on the left, nonmetals on the right, and metalloids in between.'