![]() Here, we review the application of Goldhammer–Herzfeld theory to the question of the metallic versus non-metallic status of chemical elements within the periodic system. However, since that time the criterion has been repeatedly applied, with great success, to many systems and materials exhibiting non-metal to metal transitions in order to predict, and understand, the precise conditions for metallization. ![]() For a variety of undoubtedly complex reasons, the Goldhammer–Herzfeld theory lay dormant for close to half a century. Their simple rationalization, in terms of atomic properties which confer metallic or non-metallic status to elements across the periodic table, leads to what is commonly called the Goldhammer–Herzfeld criterion for metallization. Interestingly, the very first discussion of the problem-in fact, a pre-quantum-mechanical approach-was made earlier, by Goldhammer in 1913 and Herzfeld in 1927. The first searching, quantum-mechanical considerations of this question were put forward by Hund in 1934. In this contribution, a particular emphasis will be attached to the question ‘Why do the chemical elements of the periodic table exist either as metals or non-metals under ambient conditions?’ This is perhaps most apparent in the p-block of the periodic table where one sees an almost-diagonal line separating metals and non-metals. ![]() The demarcation of the chemical elements into metals and non-metals dates back to the dawn of Dmitri Mendeleev's construction of the periodic table it still represents the cornerstone of our view of modern chemistry. ![]()
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