Why do nonmetals have a dull appearance?

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They have many free electrons

They gain electrons easily

They do not have lustre

All of the above

answer is C.

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Detailed Solution

concept - Any substance that shines or is bright is caused by the reflection of photons by moving electrons on the metal surface. Nonmetals do not have free electrons to lose, rather they gain them, so no light is reflected.
Nonmetals are elements in the periodic table that form negative ions by accepting electrons from other electropositive elements. They have 4, 5, 6 or 7 electrons in their valence shell. They lack all metallic properties and are good insulators of heat and electricity.
They have high ionisation energy and high electronegativity because they usually gain electrons and form covalent bonds. They are mostly liquids and gases, and only a few of them are in a solid state. They are not shiny because they do not have a shiny appearance.
Because they have no free electrons available for excitation, when light falls on them, it enters and is absorbed without reflecting or transmitting any light. No reflection means no visible light or sparkle, so they have no shine and a dull appearance.
Hence, the correct option is (3).

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