Nonmetal

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Nonmetal

Nonmetal (pronounced: /nɒnˈmɛtəl/) is a term used in Chemistry to refer to a group of elements that do not exhibit the typical metallic properties of luster, good heat and electricity conduction, and the ability to lose electrons in chemical reactions. The term "nonmetal" is derived from the Old English words "non" meaning not, and "metall" meaning metal.

Etymology

The term "nonmetal" is a combination of the English prefix "non-" meaning "not" and "metal". The term was first used in the early 19th century to distinguish these elements from metals.

Characteristics

Nonmetals are distinguished by their lack of metallic properties. They are generally poor conductors of heat and electricity and do not have the luster that metals do. Nonmetals tend to gain electrons in chemical reactions, as opposed to metals which tend to lose electrons.

Examples

Examples of nonmetals include Hydrogen, Oxygen, Nitrogen, Fluorine, Chlorine, Phosphorus, and Sulfur. These elements are found in various states of matter at room temperature, such as gases (Hydrogen, Oxygen, Nitrogen, Fluorine, Chlorine) and solids (Phosphorus, Sulfur).

Related Terms

  • Metalloid: An element that has properties in between or that are a mixture of those of metals and nonmetals.
  • Periodic Table: A tabular arrangement of the chemical elements, organized on the basis of their atomic number, electron configuration, and recurring chemical properties.
  • Chemical Reaction: A process that leads to the transformation of one set of chemical substances to another.

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