Final answer:
It is true that nonmetals have higher electronegativity values than metals, due to their tendency to gain electrons and become anions. The high electronegativity of nonmetals makes them insulators with higher binding energy, whereas metals with lower electronegativity are good conductors due to their lower binding energy for electrons.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is true that nonmetals have higher electronegativity values than metals. Electronegativity is the measure of an atom's ability to attract and hold onto electrons. Nonmetals, which usually have a higher number of valence electrons compared to metals, tend to gain electrons in chemical reactions to become anions, hence they have higher electronegativity values. This is why nonmetals are considered to be good oxidants. Metals, on the other hand, have fewer valence electrons and in chemical reactions they tend to lose these electrons to become cations, which is why they have lower electronegativity values and are good reductants.
The difference in electronegativity is also related to the electrical conductive properties of metals and nonmetals. Metals, which have low electronegativity and thus low binding energy (BE) for their electrons, easily allow for the movement of electrons and are hence good electrical conductors. In contrast, nonmetals have higher BE, making it more difficult for electrons to be freed, and thus they are good insulators.
Additionally, the distinct properties of nonmetals and metals in terms of electronegativity and electrical conductivity are reflected in their positions on the periodic table, with nonmetals having higher electronegativity and higher electrical resistivity, making them insulators, while metals have the opposite characteristics.