Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of non-metals?

The correct answer highlights that non-metals are typically not good conductors of electricity. Non-metals are generally poor conductors due to their atomic structure, which lacks free electrons to facilitate the movement of electrical charge. This is in contrast to metals, which have electrons that can move freely and conduct electricity effectively.

Brittleness in solid form refers to the tendency of non-metals, such as sulfur and phosphorus, to break rather than deform when subjected to stress. This characteristic is common among many solid non-metals.

The low melting points of non-metals make them distinct from most metals, which typically have higher melting points. Many non-metals, like carbon in the form of graphite or sulfur, exist in solid forms that have comparatively low melting points.

The fact that non-metals can exist in various states (solid, liquid, gas) is also a true characteristic. For example, oxygen and nitrogen are gases, bromine is a liquid, and sulfur and carbon are solids.

Thus, the option that identifies a trait not typical of non-metals is their inability to conduct electricity well, solidifying the understanding of their distinctive properties in contrast to metals.