A pure element is a pure substance that has only one kind of atoms. If a substance is present in nature in elemental form, it means that the element is not very reactive as reactive elements exist in the form of their compounds with atoms of other elements. Element can be categorized as a metal or a non-metal based on some physical observable properties. Generally, metals are shiny lustrous solids and non metals are gases. Metals are good conductors of heat and electricity whereas non metals are not conductors.
