Which of the following is a characteristic of nonmetals?

• A. They tend to gain electrons during chemical reactions.
• B. They have a shiny, metallic luster.
• C. They are good conductors of electricity.
• D. They are malleable and ductile.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the general properties of nonmetals compared to metals. Nonmetals are elements that typically have different physical and chemical characteristics than metals.
2. Recall that nonmetals tend to have higher electronegativities, meaning they attract electrons more strongly in chemical reactions.
3. Recognize that nonmetals usually gain electrons during chemical reactions to form anions, which is a key chemical behavior.
4. Contrast this with metals, which tend to lose electrons and have properties such as metallic luster, good electrical conductivity, and malleability/ductility.
5. Therefore, identify that the characteristic of nonmetals is that they tend to gain electrons during chemical reactions, unlike metals which exhibit the other listed properties.