The properties of non-metals

In a nutshell

Non-metals vary, this means they have different properties, unlike metals that share many similar properties. Non-metal properties are quite the opposite to metal properties. Non-metals are not good conductors, they are often good insulators as current cannot flow through and heat does not transfer well. They are often dull and brittle, with a low tensile strength. Non-metals are never magnetic and when compared to metals they have low melting and boiling points as well as a low density.

Properties of non-metals summarised

Unlike metals, properties of non-metals vary meaning they do not have similar properties. They are summarised in the below table.

property	further information
Good electrical insulator	Electrical current does not flow through these materials.
Good thermal insulator	Materials that do not transfer heat well.
Dull	Materials that do not reflect light well, which gives them a dull appearance.
Low tensile strength	Materials that break or snap easily.
Brittle	Materials that shatter easily.
Low melting and boiling points	Forces between particles are weak, which means a low amount of energy is required to break these forces. This means non-metals melt/boil fast.
Low density	They are light for their size.
Non-magnetic	All non-metals are non-magnetic.