Metallic bonding properties

Question 1

Good conductor of electricity

Answer 1

Free moving delocalised electrons will move towards a positive electrode and away from the negative electrode in an electric circuit.

Question 2

Good conductor of heat

Answer 2

The delocalised electrons and metal ions bump into one another transferring energy. This can transmit heat throughout the lattice.

Question 3

Lustrous

Answer 3

The delocalised electrons reflect light making the metal appear shiny.

Question 4

Generally dense

Answer 4

The cations are closely packed in the metal lattice with delocalised electrons filling in the gaps.

Question 5

Malleable and ductile

Answer 5

When a force is applied metal ions move past each other however they are held together by the delocalised electrons.

Question 6

High melting and boiling temperature

Answer 6

There is a strong electrostatic force between positive metal ions and the negative sea of delocalised electrons that strongly hold the lattice together.