Science Common Sense


1784 - What are the preparations, properties, and applications of common nonmetals and their important compounds?

Let's talk about some common nonmetals, their properties, and uses.

1. Oxygen (O2) Preparation: Found in air, separated using liquid nitrogen Properties: Colorless, odorless gas Applications: We breathe in oxygen to live. Used in steel production, and making medicines like oxygen tanks for patients.

2. Nitrogen (N2) Preparation: Found in air, separated using liquid nitrogen Properties: Colorless, odorless gas Applications: Used in food packaging (like potato chips), making fertilizers for plants, and as a shielding gas for welding.

3. Carbon (in forms of graphite and diamond) Preparation: Graphite is mined from the earth. Diamond is made by heating graphite under high pressure. Properties: Graphite is soft and slippery. Diamond is very hard. Applications: Graphite is used in pencils and as a lubricant. Diamond is used as a precious gemstone and for making cutting tools.

4. Sulfur (S) Preparation: Found in underground deposits, extracted using hot water Properties: Yellowish solid with an unpleasant smell Applications: Used to make matches, gunpowder, and medicines like ointments for skin.

Some important compounds of nonmetals:

Other compounds:

Remember, nonmetals are all around us, and their compounds play a big role in our daily lives!