What is unique about nonmetals?

Answer 1

Nonmetals are unique due to their distinct physical and chemical properties, which contrast sharply with those of metals. They generally have higher electronegativities and ionization energies, making them more likely to gain electrons during chemical reactions. Nonmetals can exist in various states at room temperature—such as gases (like oxygen and nitrogen), liquids (like bromine), and solids (like carbon and sulfur)—and they tend to be poor conductors of heat and electricity. Additionally, nonmetals often form covalent bonds with other nonmetals, resulting in a wide variety of molecular compounds.