Nekovy

Nekovy is the term used in Czech to describe chemical elements that are not metals. In this context, nekovy include hydrogen, carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, sulfur, selenium, the halogens (fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, astatine) and the noble gases (helium, neon, argon, krypton, xenon, radon, oganesson). They are distinguished from kovy (metals) and, to a lesser extent, from metalloids.

Properties of nekovy differ markedly from metals. They typically have relatively low electrical conductivity, are not malleable, and possess high ionization energies and electronegativities. They tend to gain or share electrons in reactions, forming covalent bonds in many compounds or ionic compounds when combined with metals. At room temperature, many nekovy exist as diatomic molecules (H2, N2, O2, F2, Cl2); their states vary from gases to liquids (bromine) and solids (carbon, phosphorus, sulfur).

Nekovy participate in a wide range of chemical behavior. They form acidic oxides and diverse compounds, including water (H2O), carbon dioxide (CO2) and many organic molecules. The halogens are highly reactive nonmetals, while the noble gases are generally inert under standard conditions.

Biologically and environmentally, nekovy are essential. Carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus and sulfur are fundamental to life, forming organic molecules and biological processes. Oxygen and nitrogen dominate Earth's atmosphere, while carbon underpins organic chemistry. Halogens and noble gases have important industrial and environmental roles, from disinfectants to lighting and inert atmospheres.

In summary, nekovy constitute a broad and diverse group of nonmetal elements with distinct chemical properties and wide-ranging applications and significance.