Nonmetallic: meaning, definitions and examples
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nonmetallic
[nɒnˈmɛtəlɪk ]
Definition
chemical properties
The term 'nonmetallic' refers to elements or compounds that do not exhibit the properties typically associated with metals. Nonmetallic substances are usually poor conductors of heat and electricity, and they often have higher electronegativities compared to metals. They can exist in solid, liquid, or gaseous states and are generally more varied in their physical appearance than metals. Nonmetals tend to be more reactive than metals in chemical reactions, forming ionic or covalent bonds with other elements.
Synonyms
non-metallic, nonmetal.
Examples of usage
- Sulfur is a nonmetallic element.
- Nonmetallic compounds often have low melting points.
- Inorganic nonmetallic substances can be found in various industries.
- Graphite is a nonmetallic form of carbon.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'nonmetallic' combines 'non-' meaning 'not' with 'metallic', which comes from 'metal', to describe something that lacks metallic properties.
- The concept was first used in the 1800s when scientists began categorizing elements based on their properties.
- Prefixes like 'non-' are often used in other scientific terms to indicate the absence of something, improving clarity in communication.
Science
- Nonmetals typically have lower densities and melting points compared to metals, making them useful in applications like insulation.
- In chemistry, nonmetals play a major role in forming compounds; for example, oxygen is a nonmetal that is essential for life.
- The majority of nonmetals are found on the right side of the periodic table, including elements like nitrogen, carbon, and sulfur.
Technology
- Nonmetallic materials are crucial in electronics; they are often used as insulators to prevent unwanted electrical flow.
- Advancements in technology have led to the development of nonmetallic composites which are used in aerospace for their strength and light weight.
- 3D printing often utilizes nonmetallic filaments, allowing for diverse and innovative design possibilities.
Environment
- Nonmetallic materials, like certain plastics, are a significant part of the discussion on pollution and recycling efforts.
- Many nonmetals, such as carbon in the form of CO2, play essential roles in natural processes like photosynthesis and respiration.
- The use of nonmetallic materials is increasing in eco-friendly products, promoting sustainable alternatives to traditional materials.
Cultural References
- In literature and art, nonmetallic materials often symbolize softness, delicacy, or fragility, contrasting with the strength of metals.
- Nonmetals are frequently featured in science fiction as essential components of alien technologies, highlighting their versatility.
- Cultural practices sometimes use nonmetallic substances like clay or wood in crafts, demonstrating their importance in human creativity.
Translations
Translations of the word "nonmetallic" in other languages:
🇵🇹 não metálico
🇮🇳 गैर-धात्विक
🇩🇪 nichtmetallisch
🇮🇩 non-logam
🇺🇦 неметалевий
🇵🇱 niemalowy
🇯🇵 非金属の
🇫🇷 non métallique
🇪🇸 no metálico
🇹🇷 metal olmayan
🇰🇷 비금속의
🇸🇦 غير معدني
🇨🇿 nekovový
🇸🇰 nemetálový
🇨🇳 非金属的
🇸🇮 nemetalni
🇮🇸 ekki málmur
🇰🇿 метал емес
🇬🇪 არამეტალური
🇦🇿 metal olmayan
🇲🇽 no metálico