Nonmetals

Definition

Nonmetals are elements that typically have high ionization energies and electronegativities. They are poor conductors of heat and electricity and can be found on the right side of the periodic table.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nonmetals generally have higher ionization energies compared to metals.
2. They are usually poor conductors of heat and electricity.
3. Many nonmetals exist in gaseous form at room temperature, such as oxygen and nitrogen.
4. Nonmetals tend to gain electrons during chemical reactions, forming anions.
5. Examples of nonmetals include carbon, sulfur, phosphorus, and chlorine.

Review Questions

• What is a common property of nonmetals regarding electrical conductivity?
• Where on the periodic table are nonmetals primarily located?
• Do nonmetals tend to gain or lose electrons in chemical reactions?

Related terms

Ionization Energy:

The amount of energy required to remove an electron from an atom or molecule.

Electronegativity:

A measure of an atom's ability to attract and hold onto electrons within a chemical bond.

Anion: A negatively charged ion formed by the gain of one or more electrons by an atom or molecule.