Question

Why do non-metals not react with acids?

• A. They have a very high melting and boiling point
• B. They lose electrons readily
• C. They are un reactive
• D. They gain electrons readily

Answer 1

The correct option is D They gain electrons readily

Non-metals do not generally react with acids because when a substance, reacts with acids it provides electrons to the $H+$ ions produced by the acids. Non-metals are acceptors of electrons and hence, they cannot donate electrons. They have $4,5,6,7$ electrons in their valence shell and therefore, they readily gain electrons.