Which of the following best describes nonmetals?

Nonmetals are best described as elements that usually gain or share electrons. This characteristic stems from their position on the periodic table, where nonmetals are found primarily on the right side. They have high electronegativities, which means they have a strong tendency to attract electrons in chemical reactions. This property enables nonmetals to achieve a full valence shell by gaining or sharing electrons, allowing them to form covalent bonds with other nonmetals or ionic bonds with metals.

Nonmetals also have varying physical properties, including lower melting and boiling points compared to metals, and they generally do not conduct electricity well. These factors further distinguish them from metals and metalloids, whose behaviors and characteristics differ significantly. Thus, the defining property that nonmetals usually gain or share electrons is a crucial aspect of their chemical behavior and bonding tendencies.