Metals and non-metals are different in how their tiny building blocks, called atoms, are arranged. Here are some important points to understand:

1. Protons and Neutrons:

   • Metals usually have heavy atoms because they have more neutrons.
   • Non-metals have lighter atoms because they often have fewer neutrons.

2. Electrons:

   • Metals have fewer electrons in their outer layer, usually between 1 and 3.
   • Non-metals have more electrons, usually between 4 and 8. This makes them more stable and able to react with other elements easily.

3. Atomic Number:

   • Metals can be found on the left side and towards the bottom of the periodic table.
   • Non-metals are on the right side and top of the table. They also have a stronger ability to attract electrons, which is called electronegativity.