Chapter 7.2: metallic bonding

Question 1

What is the structure formed by metallic bonds?

Answer 1

Giant lattice structure: lattice of positive ions surrounded by sea of mobile electrons
- Metal ions lose outer electrons and become positive ions packed tightly
- Outer electrons delocalise and move freely between ions

Question 2

What are the physical properties of metals?

Answer 2

1) Good conductors of electricity

2) Good conductors of heat

3) High densities, melting and boiling points

4) Malleable and ductile

Question 3

Why are metals good electrical conductors?

Answer 3

• Outer electrons of metal atoms break away easily
• Move freely within metal lattice and allow the metal to conduct electricity

Question 4

Why are metals good thermal conductors?

Answer 4

• Heat energy is transferred easily by mobile electrons in the structure

Question 5

Why are metals dense with high melting/boiling points?

Answer 5

Metallic particles are packed tightly in layers and held together by strong metallic bonds that require large amounts of energy to break

Question 6

Why are metals malleable and ductile?

Answer 6

When force is applied to a metal, the layers of metal atoms slide over each other through the sea of electrons very easily