Physical properties of non - metals :

1 Physical state: 

Non – metals occur as solids, liquids or gases at normal temperature; for example sulphur, phosphorus occurs in solid state while bromine occurs in liquid state. Gases like oxygen, nitrogen, etc., occur in the gaseous state

2. Hardness: 

Non – metals are generally not hard except diamond, (a form of carbon).

3. Lustre:

Non – metals have a dull appearance; Graphite and iodine are exceptions as they are shiny and lustrous.

4. Density: 

Non – Metals are generally soft and have low densities. The exception here is diamond (a form of carbon) which’is the hardest naturally occurring substance.

5. Melting point and boiling point: 

Non – metals have low melting point and boiling point. However, carbon, silicon and boron are exceptions.

6. Tensile strength: 

Non – metals do not have tensile strength. However, carbon fiber (a form of carbon) is as tensile as steel.

7. Malleability: 

Non – metals are non-malleable. If hammered, they form a powdery mass. Actually non – metals in solid state are brittle in nature.

8. Ductility: 

Non – metals are not ductile. Carbon fibre is highly ductile.

9. Conductivity: 

Non – Metals are generally bad conductor of electricity. Graphite (a form of carbon) is exception.

10. Sonorous: 

Non – metals do not produce sound (non – sonorous) when hit