Source: Extra Practice
Which of the following statements about non-metals is generally true?
Options
Option A
They are usually shiny and lustrous.
Option B
They are good conductors of heat and electricity.
Option C is correct
They are brittle and break easily when hammered.
Option D
They are malleable and ductile.
Explanation
Non-metals are generally brittle, meaning they break or crumble easily when subjected to force, such as hammering. This is in contrast to metals which are malleable and ductile. Non-metals typically lack lustre (are dull), are poor conductors of heat and electricity (with exceptions like graphite), and are not malleable or ductile. Therefore, brittleness is a characteristic property of most non-metals. (2 marks = ~50 words)