Periodic Table Vocabulary Periodic Table This chart presents and organizes information about all the elements. GROUPS The vertical columns in the periodic table Periods The horizontal rows in the periodic table. Metals Elements on the left side of the periodic table that conduct heat well and have a shiny appearance. Nonmetals Elements on the right side of the periodic table that are generally poor conductors of heat and electricity. Metalloids Elements on the periodic table that have some characteristics of both metals and non metals. Radioactive The process by which the nucleus of an atom of an element releases energy and particles. Reactive How likely an element is to undergo a chemical change. Malleable The property of metals where it can be flattened into sheets or pounded into shapes. Conductor A material that transfers electric charge easily. Ductile The property of metals where it can be drawn into wire.