What describes a characteristic of non-metals?

Non-metals are characterized by their lack of metallic properties, which is reflected in their conductivity and chemical behavior. Typically, non-metals are poor conductors of heat and electricity due to their lack of free-moving electrons, which are necessary for conduction. This makes them insulating materials in many applications.

Additionally, non-metals tend to gain electrons during chemical reactions, particularly when forming ionic bonds. This is because they have high electronegativity and a tendency to form anions, which further distinguishes them from metals, which usually lose electrons.

The option highlighting that non-metals are generally poor conductors and may gain electrons effectively captures these two fundamental traits of non-metals, making it the correct description. These characteristics are essential for understanding the behavior of non-metals in chemical reactions and their properties in different states of matter.