As a subject matter expert in the field of chemistry, I am well-versed in the properties of various elements and their ability to conduct electricity. When discussing the conductivity of elements, it's important to consider the atomic structure and the way electrons are arranged within these structures.

Electrical conductivity in elements is primarily due to the movement of electrons. Metals, for instance, are good conductors of electricity because they have a 'sea' of delocalized electrons that can move freely throughout the material. Nonmetals, on the other hand, typically have a more tightly bound electron structure, which makes them poor conductors of electricity.

The statement provided mentions that nonmetals are generally poor conductors of heat and electricity, with the exception of graphite. This is an important distinction to make. Graphite, a form of carbon, is unique among nonmetals because of its layered structure. Within each layer, carbon atoms are arranged in a hexagonal pattern, with delocalized electrons that can move freely, much like metals. This allows graphite to conduct electricity, despite being a nonmetal.

However, not all nonmetals have such a structure. Most nonmetals, such as diamond (a form of carbon), sulfur, and phosphorus, have electrons that are more localized and do not allow for free movement, making them poor conductors of electricity. The electronegativity and the tendency to gain electrons to form anions during chemical reactions are also characteristics of nonmetals, but these properties do not directly relate to their ability to conduct electricity.

In summary, while graphite is an exception, most nonmetallic elements are poor conductors of electricity due to their atomic structure and the localized nature of their electrons.

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Nonmetals. Elements that tend to gain electrons to form anions during chemical reactions are called non-metals. These are electronegative elements. They are non-lustrous, brittle and poor conductors of heat and electricity (except graphite).Aug 26, 2015read more >>