Sodium is classified as a metal. This classification is based on its physical and chemical properties. Sodium is a soft, silver-colored metal that is highly reactive, particularly with water. It has a high electrical conductivity, which is a characteristic feature of metals. Additionally, sodium can easily lose one electron to form a positive ion (Na+), a behavior typical of metals.
In the periodic table, sodium is located in Group 1, known as the alkali metals, which further supports its classification as a metal. Alkali metals are known for being good conductors of heat and electricity, and sodium fits neatly into this category due to its metallic characteristics.
In contrast, metalloids possess properties of both metals and nonmetals, while nonmetals typically lack the typical metallic properties such as luster, malleability, and ductility. Since sodium exhibits clear metallic properties rather than those typical of nonmetals or metalloids, we confidently classify it as a metal.