What are the major differences between metals and non-metals?

Explanation

Elements which have a strong tendency to lose electrons to form cations are called metals while those which have a strong tendency to accept electrons to form anions are called non- metals . Thus metals are strong reducing agents they have low ionization enthalpies have less negative electron gain enthalpies, low electronegativity form basic oxides and ionic compounds.
Non- metals on the other hand are strong oxidising agents they have high ionization enthalpies have high negative electron gain enthalpies high electronegatively, form acidic oxides and covalent compounds.