Grade 7 → Metals and Nonmetals ↓
Physical and Chemical Properties of Non-Metals
Introduction
In the world of chemistry, elements are broadly classified into metals and nonmetals. This division is based on their physical and chemical properties. Nonmetals, as the name suggests, are elements that do not exhibit the typical properties of metals. They have unique characteristics that set them apart, and they play diverse roles in various chemical reactions and processes. In this lesson, we will explore the physical and chemical properties of nonmetals, their differences from metals, and their applications.
Physical properties of nonmetals
Nonmetals exhibit a wide variety of physical properties. Unlike metals, nonmetals can be gases, liquids, or solids at room temperature. Let's take a closer look at some of these properties.
State and appearance
Nonmetals can appear in different states of matter:
- Gases: Many nonmetals, such as
O 2
(oxygen) andN 2
(nitrogen), are gases under standard conditions. - Solid: Nonmetals like carbon, sulfur and phosphorus are solids at room temperature.
- Liquid: Bromine is a nonmetal that exists in liquid form at room temperature.
Color and texture
Non-metals have different colors and textures. For example, sulfur is yellow and brittle, while iodine is dark brown or purple and looks like crystals.
Brittleness
Nonmetals are generally brittle in the solid state. They break or shatter easily when force is applied. This is in contrast to metals, which are malleable.
Chemical properties of nonmetals
Nonmetals are known for their unique chemical properties, which are quite different from those of metals. These properties make nonmetals essential for various chemical reactions and compounds.
High electronegativities
Nonmetals have high electronegativities, which means they attract electrons toward themselves during chemical reactions. This is why nonmetals often form covalent bonds, sharing electrons with other atoms.
Acidic oxides
When nonmetals react with oxygen, they form oxides that are usually acidic. For example:
SO 2 + H 2 O → H 2 SO 3 (sulfurous acid)
In this reaction, sulfur dioxide reacts with water to form sulfurous acid.
Poor conductor of electricity
Nonmetals are generally poor conductors of electricity. This property is particularly evident in solid nonmetals, which do not have freely moving charges to carry electric current.
Jet
Nonmetals can be highly reactive, especially with metals. For example, chlorine reacts vigorously with sodium to form sodium chloride (table salt):
2Na + Cl 2 → 2NaCl
Common nonmetals and their uses
Given below are some common nonmetals and their applications in daily life and industry.
Carbon
Carbon is a very versatile nonmetal, existing as diamond, graphite, and fullerenes. It is used in:
- Diamonds: Jewellery and cutting tools.
- Graphite: In pencils and as a lubricant.
- Carbon compounds: Organic Chemistry and Fuels.
Oxygen
Oxygen supports life and is important in respiration. It is also used to aid combustion in welding and industrial processes.
Nitrogen
Nitrogen accounts for about 78% of the Earth's atmosphere. It is used in fertilizers, explosives, and as a refrigerant.
Conclusion
Nonmetals are essential elements with diverse properties and applications. Their ability to form a wide range of compounds important to life and industry highlights their importance. From supporting life through oxygen to forming the backbone of organic chemistry with carbon, nonmetals play a vital role in our daily lives and the world around us.