Here's why:

* Properties: Nonmetals generally have the following characteristics:

* Poor conductors of heat and electricity

* Brittle and lack metallic luster

* Tend to gain electrons in chemical reactions

* Phosphorus: Phosphorus is a solid at room temperature and has a waxy appearance. It is a poor conductor of heat and electricity, and it gains electrons in chemical reactions.

While phosphorus can exist in different forms (white, red, and black), these forms all share the properties of nonmetals.