Neon is classified as a nonmetal. It belongs to a group of elements known as the noble gases, which are characterized by their lack of reactivity due to having a full outer electron shell.
Nonmetals are typically elements that lack the characteristics of metals, such as conductivity and malleability. They often have higher electronegativities and ionization energies compared to metals. Neon, in its gaseous state, is colorless, odorless, and inert, meaning it does not readily engage in chemical reactions with other elements.
In contrast, metals are generally good conductors of electricity and heat, whilst metalloids possess intermediate properties between metals and nonmetals. Neon’s inertness and lack of metallic characteristics further affirm its classification as a nonmetal.