How would you classify an element and where would you expect to find a element that is a dim yellow solid at room temperature which shatters when hit with a hammer?

Answer 1

It shatters and is thus brittle and very unlikely to be a metal. It is a non-metal and thus at the right hand side of the periodic table. It is the element sulfur.

Answer 2

Based on the given properties, the element could be classified as a nonmetal, possibly sulfur. Sulfur is a solid at room temperature, has a yellow color, and is brittle enough to shatter when hit with a hammer. It is commonly found in nature near volcanic areas or near hot springs.