Nonmetal

Nonmetals are elements on the periodic table that do not fit into the description of metals. Some of the metalloids are sometimes considered to be nonmetals. Nonmetals are on the right side of the periodic table.

Nonmetals can be solids, liquids, or gases. They can be colorless or colored. Many of them are oxidizing agents. Nonmetals react with metals to make salts.

While most of the elements in the periodic table are metals, nonmetals make up more than 99% of all matter.^[1]

• Helium is a colorless gas.
• Chlorine is a green gas.
• Selenium is a black or gray solid.
• Phosphorus is a white waxy solid or a red powder.
• Bromine is a brown liquid.