what type of ions do non metals form
Nonmetal There is no rigorous definition of a nonmetal. They show more variability in their properties than metals do.[8] The following are some of the chief characteristics of nonmetals.[9] Physically, they largely exist as monatomic or diatomic gases, with a few having more substantial (but still open-packed) polyatomic forms, unlike metals, which are nearly all solid and close-packed; if solid, they generally have a submetallic or dull appearance and are brittle, as opposed to metals, which are lustrous, ductile or malleable; they usually have lower densities than metals; are poor conductors of heat and electricity when compared to metals; and have significantly lower melting points and boiling points than those of metals (with the exception of carbon).[citation needed] Chemically, the nonmetals have relatively high ionisation energy and high electronegativity; they usually exist as anions or oxyanions in aqueous solution; generally form ionic or interstitial compounds when mixed with metals, unlike metals, which form alloys; and have acidic oxides whereas the common oxides of the metals are basic.