Here's why:

* Location on the Periodic Table: Nitrogen is located in Group 15 (also known as the pnictogens) of the periodic table, which primarily consists of nonmetals.

* Properties: Nonmetals generally have these properties:

* Poor conductors of heat and electricity

* Brittle (not malleable or ductile)

* Tend to gain electrons in chemical reactions

* Exist as gases, liquids, or solids at room temperature

Nitrogen fits these characteristics, existing as a colorless, odorless gas at room temperature and being a poor conductor of electricity.