Question

Which of the following is a non metal:
A. Iron
B. Copper
C. Zinc
D. Chlorine

Answer 1

Hint: Metals possess free electrons, hence are a good conductor of heat and electricity. They are generally found in solid state, whereas, non metals do not have free electrons and can be found both in solid or gaseous state at room temperatures.

Complete answer:
In order to answer our question, we need to know what are metals and nonmetals and some of their differences. Now, an atom is made up of electrons, protons and neutrons. However, in some atoms, some free electrons are present. The advantage of these free electrons is that these help in the conduction of electricity. The electricity flows in the direction opposite to the flow of the free electrons. Such a type of material is called a metal. Metals are usually found as mixed compounds in the crust of the earth. Metals have a luster, malleable and ductile, which means that they can be beaten into sheets as well as they can be drawn into wires. In non metals, electricity conduction is not possible, as there are no free electrons present. Metals are generally found in solid state, whereas non metals can be found in solid state as well as the gaseous and some in liquid state too. Now, let us come to the question. We have been given four substances. Iron, copper and zinc are found as ores in the crust of the earth, they have free electrons and are a good conductor of heat and electricity. Hence, they can be regarded as metals. Chlorine is a gas and does not possess any free electrons, hence it is regarded as a non metal. So, the correct answer option for the question would be option D.

Note:
It is to be noted that liquid states for both metals and nonmetals are very rare. Mercury is the only liquid metal at room temperature and in case of non metals, bromine is the only liquid at room temperature. Graphite, although being a non metal has the ability to conduct electricity.