Question:

Solution: Hint: An important classification by which we can differentiate the

objects or bodies around us is their ability to emit light. The ones that can
produce their own light are luminous, while others fall into the non-luminous
category. Now we can easily differentiate the luminous and non-luminous
objects.

COMPARED LUMINOUS BODY NON-LUMINOUS BODY

BASED ON
Definition Luminous bodies emit or produce
their light.
Sensation Of Luminous objects cause the
Light sensation of light on the
receiving entity, i.e. the human
eye.
Visibility Since the luminous objects emit
their light, they are visible to us.
Examples Some examples of luminous
objects considered are The Sun,
Stars, Candle, Oil lamp, Torch,
Electrical bulb, Glow-worm, tube
light, mercury lamps etc.
Unlike the luminous bodies, the
non-luminous bodies do not give
out or emit light of their light.
Non-luminous objects do not
cause the sensation of light.
While the non-luminous objects
don’t have their light, they can
be made visible because of the
light of luminous objects.
Examples of non-luminous
objects/bodies include: Earth,
Moon, Battery, Fan, Almirah,
Chair, Eraser, Pen, Pencil etc.

Note: A critical misconception is that mirror is considered as the luminous body. However, the
mirror doesnot emit light; instead, it reflects light. Hence it is also a non-luminous body.

Question:

Solution: Hint: Non-metals are elements that form negative ions by gaining or
accepting electrons. They have 5,6,7 electrons in their outermost orbit, and thus
it is easy for them to form an octet by gaining electrons. Their attributes include
non-lustrous, non-sonorous, non-malleable etc.

Complete answer: Phosphorous, a group 15 element which is also a non-

metal, shows allotropy. Phosphorus can exist in several allotropic forms. The most
common allotropes are -- white, red, and black. Phosphorus was first produced
chemically as the common white phosphorus, which is the most volatile as well as toxic.
However, the most common allotrope of phosphorus in commercial use is amorphous
red phosphorus. It is obtained by heating white phosphorus in the absence of air at
about 300°C.

Note: Allotropy can be considered as a special case of polymorphism which is

exhibited by the change in physical conditions like temperature, pressure, light
etc.