Science glossary film: Non-metals

The non-metal elements are found to the right of the periodic table. Their atoms typically have four or more electrons in their outer shells, and so have distinctly different physical and chemical properties from metals. Non-metals are typically poor conductors of heat and electricity. Sulphur, oxygen, carbon and nitrogen are all typical non-metals.

Their atoms typically have four or more electrons in their outer shells, and so have distinctly different physical and chemical properties from metals. Non-metals are typically poor conductors of heat and electricity. Sulphur, oxygen, carbon and nitrogen are all typical non-metals.