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Difficulty: EasyMetallic Bonding and Properties of Metals

Match each physical property of metals on the left with the microscopic structural explanation on the right that best accounts for it.

  • Thermal conductivityRapid transfer of thermal energy by mobile delocalized electrons through the lattice
  • High metallic lustreRe-emission of absorbed light by oscillating free electrons on the metal surface
  • DuctilitySliding of positive cation layers past each other into wires without breaking metallic bonds

Answer

Thermal conductivity matches with rapid transfer of thermal energy by mobile delocalized electrons through the lattice. High metallic lustre matches with re-emission of absorbed light by oscillating free electrons on the metal surface. Ductility matches with sliding of positive cation layers past each other into wires without breaking metallic bonds.
Thermal conductivity is caused by mobile delocalized electrons rapidly transferring heat throughout the metal lattice. Metallic lustre occurs because surface free electrons absorb and re-emit light photons. Ductility is enabled by positive cation layers sliding past each other within the sea of delocalized electrons without disrupting the non-directional metallic bonding.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the cause of heat transport in metals
Thermal conductivity relies on delocalized valence electrons carrying thermal energy rapidly through the crystal lattice.
Free electrons gain kinetic energy when heated and collide with surrounding ions and electrons to distribute heat.
2
Identify the cause of optical reflection (lustre)
Metallic lustre is produced by surface delocalized electrons oscillating in response to incoming light waves and reflecting them.
The un-bound nature of free valence electrons allows immediate absorption and re-radiation of visible light photons.
3
Identify the mechanical feature enabling deformation into wires
Ductility relies on layers of cations sliding past one another while held together by non-directional metallic attraction.
Because metallic bonding is non-directional, moving cation layers do not cause repulsive strain that breaks the crystal structure.

Key Concept

Properties of metals in terms of the delocalized electron sea model
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Topics

Metallic Bonding and Properties of Metals

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