Which of the following is a common property of non-metals?

Source: JAMB · 2023

Which of the following is a common property of non-metals?

  1. High thermal conductivity
  2. Readily form cations in chemical reactions
  3. Exist as solids at room temperature
  4. Tend to gain electrons in chemical reactions ✓
Explanation

Non-metals gain electrons in reactions. They want to fill their outer shells. This makes them form negative ions called anions.

Metals lose electrons and conduct heat well. Non-metals don’t conduct heat well. Many non-metals are gases, not solids.

Remember: Non-metals are on the right side of the periodic table. They gain electrons and form anions.

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