Non-Metals
Science: KS3, topic 2.4.6
Non-Metals
Non-metals can be found on the right-hand side of the dividing step line on the periodic table. There are 17 non-metals.
Non-metals
- One-quarter of the elements on the periodic table are non-metals.
- Between the 17 elements, they can be all three states of matter.
- Hydrogen is the most common element in the universe. Helium is the second most common.
Non-metal uses
- We use lots of non-metals.
- Oxygen – a reactant used in respiration.
- Carbon – can be used as a fuel (coal), pencil ‘lead’ (graphite) and also composes diamonds.
- Chlorine – used in cleaning products.
- Fluorine – used in toothpaste.
- Nitrogen – used in fertilisers.
Non-metal properties
- The properties of non-metals include:
- Good insulators – they do not conduct heat or electricity well. This is useful for keeping us warm and protecting us from electrical wiring.
- Brittle – They will break apart and so cannot be hammered into shape.
- None are magnetic (apart from carbon)
- They have a low density.
- Not ductile.
- Not malleable.
Test yourself on Non-Metals
How many non-metals are on the periodic table?
Which of these is the correct use of each non-metal?
Which element is the most common in the universe?
Electrical wires are often coated in a non-metal material. Why does this stop people getting an electric shock from the wire?