Which of the following properties are most commonly associated with nonmetals?

• A. Poor electrical conductivity and high electronegativity
• B. Tendency to form cations in chemical reactions
• C. Shiny appearance and good thermal conductivity
• D. Malleability and ductility

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the general properties of nonmetals. Nonmetals are elements that typically have high electronegativity, meaning they attract electrons strongly in chemical bonds.
2. Step 2: Recall that nonmetals usually have poor electrical conductivity because they lack free-moving electrons, unlike metals which conduct electricity well.
3. Step 3: Recognize that nonmetals tend to gain electrons during chemical reactions, forming anions rather than cations. Therefore, the tendency to form cations is more characteristic of metals.
4. Step 4: Note that properties such as shiny appearance, good thermal conductivity, malleability, and ductility are typical of metals, not nonmetals.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the properties most commonly associated with nonmetals are poor electrical conductivity and high electronegativity.