Question

One of the characteristic properties of non-metals is that they

• A. are reducing agents
• B. form basic oxides
• C. form cations by electron gain
• D. are electronegative

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

To understand the characteristic properties of non-metals, let's analyze the given options:

1. Are reducing agents: Reducing agents are substances that donate electrons to another substance and become oxidized. Generally, metals act as reducing agents, whereas non-metals, due to their tendency to gain electrons, typically do not act as reducing agents. Hence, this is not a characteristic property of non-metals.
2. Form basic oxides: Basic oxides are typically formed by metals. Non-metals generally form acidic or neutral oxides. Therefore, forming basic oxides is not characteristic of non-metals.
3. Form cations by electron gain: Cations are positively charged ions formed by losing electrons. Non-metals tend to gain electrons to achieve a full outer shell and form anions, not cations. Thus, this option is incorrect.
4. Are electronegative: Non-metals have a high tendency to gain electrons, making them electronegative. Electronegativity refers to the ability of an atom to attract electrons towards itself in a chemical bond. This is indeed a characteristic property of non-metals.

Therefore, among the given options, the correct answer is that non-metals are electronegative.