Final answer:
Neutral atoms with an s²p⁶ electron configuration in the highest energy level are best classified as noble gases, which are nonmetals characterized by their low reactivity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Neutral atoms with an s²p⁶ electron configuration in the highest energy level are best classified as:
The electron configuration s²p⁶ corresponds to the noble gas configuration, which means that the outermost energy level of the atom is completely filled. These atoms are called noble gases. Noble gases are nonmetals and are characterized by their low reactivity.