The definition of metal: A substance with high electrical conductivity, luster, and malleability, which readily loses electrons to form positive ions (cations). Metals are otherwise defined according to their position on the Periodic Table.
What Is a Metal in Chemistry?
The Scientific Definition of Metal
![Copper is one of relatively few elements found in native state. You can see the copper metal in this specimen from a Minnesota mine.](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.thoughtco.com/thmb/nlVFabxNEXE_FBgmNs-s6UDV7C4=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/GettyImages-130890213-58b5b5243df78cdcd8b1d67b.jpg)
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