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metallic bonding properties
A LevelChemistry~4 min read
Overview
This lesson explores metallic bonding, a strong electrostatic attraction between positive metal ions and delocalised electrons. We will examine how this unique bonding model explains the characteristic physical properties of metals, such as conductivity, malleability, and high melting points.
The Nature of Metallic Bonding
Metallic bonding is a distinct type of chemical bonding found in metals. Unlike ionic or covalent bonding, it involves a 'sea' of delocalised electrons. In a metal, the valence electrons are not held tightly by individual atoms; instead, they are donated to a common pool and are free to move through...
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Key Concepts
- Metallic Bonding: The electrostatic attraction between a lattice of positive metal ions and a 'sea' of delocalised electrons.
- Delocalised Electrons: Valence electrons that are not associated with a single atom or bond but are free to move throughout the entire metallic structure.
- Metallic Lattice: A regular, repeating arrangement of positive metal ions in a solid metal.
- Malleability: The ability of a metal to be hammered or pressed into different shapes without breaking.
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Exam Tips
- →When explaining properties, always link them back to the 'sea of delocalised electrons' and the 'electrostatic attraction between positive ions and delocalised electrons'.
- →Be specific about the movement of electrons for conductivity (directed movement for electrical, random collisions for thermal).
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