User:Sandbh/Nonmetal2
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A nonmetal is a chemical element generally characterized by low density and high electronegativity (the ability of an atom in a molecule to attract electrons to itself). They range from colorless gases like hydrogen to shiny solids like carbon, as graphite. Nonmetals are often poor conductors of heat and electricity, and when in solid form tend to be brittle or crumbly due to the limited mobility of their electrons. In contrast, metals are good conductors and most can easily be flattened into sheets and drawn into wires because of the free movement of their electrons. While compounds of metals tend to be basic in nature those of nonmetals tend to be acidic.
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Hydrogen and helium, which are nonmetals, together constitute about 99% of the observable ordinary matter in the universe by mass. Five nonmetallic elements—hydrogen, carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and silicon—make up most of the Earth's crust, atmosphere, oceans and biosphere.
The distinct properties of nonmetallic elements allow for specific uses that metals cannot often achieve. For example, hydrogen, oxygen, carbon, and nitrogen, are vital to living organisms. Additionally, nonmetals are integral to various industries, such as electronics, energy storage, agriculture, and chemical production.
While the term "non-metallic" has origins dating back to 1566, there is no universally accepted definition of a nonmetal. This lack of clarity arises from elements with a marked mixture of metallic and nonmetallic properties. As a result, classifications vary, typically listing from 14 to 23 (or 24) elements as nonmetals.