Explain whether boron acts as a metal or a non- metal in this reaction between them?

Boron is considered a metalloid, which means it has properties of both metals and non-metals. In the reaction between boron and another element, it can exhibit characteristics of both a metal and a non-metal depending on the specific reaction conditions.

In general, boron tends to act more like a non-metal in chemical reactions. It typically forms covalent bonds with other elements, rather than the metallic bonds that are characteristic of metals. However, in certain reactions, boron can exhibit some metallic properties, such as conducting electricity under certain conditions.

Overall, in the reaction between boron and another element, it is more likely to behave as a non-metal due to its tendency to form covalent bonds.

Reaction:

```
4B + 3O2 → 2B2O3
```

Explanation:

In this reaction, boron (B) reacts with oxygen (O2) to form boron trioxide (B2O3). Boron exhibits non-metallic properties in this reaction. Here's why:

- Electron Configuration: Boron has an atomic number of 5, with an electron configuration of [He]2s²2p¹. Non-metals tend to have valence electrons (outermost electrons) that are not easily lost or shared. Boron has three valence electrons and it does not lose or gain electrons easily.
- Chemical Bonding: Non-metals typically form covalent bonds by sharing valence electrons with other atoms. In this reaction, boron shares its three valence electrons with oxygen atoms to form three covalent bonds, creating B2O3.
- Oxidation State: Boron has an oxidation state of +3 in this reaction. Non-metals typically have positive oxidation states when they combine with other elements.
- Physical Properties: The product formed, B2O3, is a solid with a high melting point, which is characteristic of non-metals.

Therefore, based on these properties, boron acts as a non-metal in this reaction with oxygen.