Non-Metals

The non-metals occupy the upper right portion of the periodic table. Despite being fewer in number than the metals, non-metals are arguably the most important elements for life and for the chemistry of our planet. They form the molecules of the atmosphere, the compounds of living organisms, and the backbone of organic chemistry.

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Overview

Non-metals share several general properties:

• Poor conductors of heat and electricity (insulators)
• Low melting and boiling points — many are gases at room temperature
• Brittle as solids (they shatter rather than bend)
• High electronegativity — they tend to gain electrons to form negative ions (anions) or share electrons in covalent bonds
• Varied appearances — gases (O₂, N₂), liquids (Br₂), and solids (C, S, P) at room temperature

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The Reactive Non-Metals