# Non-metal

An element that is usually dull, brittle when solid and a poor conductor. Non-metals sit on the right of the periodic table.

Chemistry (school) · Part 02: The periodic table · Card 5 of 9 · Last updated 2026-10-19

## Analogy

Non-metals are like people who prefer to collect electrons rather than give them away.

## In practice

Sulfur is a yellow, brittle solid. It does not conduct electricity.

## Questions people ask

### Why are most non-metals poor conductors?

Non-metal atoms hold on to their electrons or share them in bonds, so there are no free electrons to carry charge. This makes them good insulators. Graphite, a form of carbon, is a famous exception because each carbon atom has a spare electron that can move.

### Where is the line between metals and non-metals on the table?

A stepped line runs down the right-hand side of the periodic table. Metals lie to the left of it and non-metals to the right. Elements near the line, such as silicon, have properties in between. Hydrogen is a non-metal, even though it is placed at the top left.

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