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Difficulty: EasyMetallic Bonding and Properties of Metals

Which of the following best describes the fundamental attraction responsible for metallic bonding in solid metals?

  1. Electrostatic attraction between positive metal cations and a sea of delocalized valence electronsAnswer
  2. B
    Mutual sharing of localized electron pairs between adjacent atoms
  3. C
    Electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged discrete ions formed by electron transfer
  4. D
    Weak intermolecular forces existing between neutral metal atoms

Answer

The metallic bond is defined as the strong electrostatic attraction between positively charged metal cations fixed in a lattice and a surrounding sea of mobile, delocalized valence electrons.
The correct option accurately defines metallic bonding as the electrostatic force of attraction binding positive metal ions to a fluid sea of delocalized valence electrons, which accounts for characteristic metallic properties like electrical conductivity and malleability.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the valence electron behavior in metals
Metal atoms lose their outer valence electrons to form positive cations, producing a shared pool of delocalized electrons free to move throughout the giant structure.
Low ionization energies in metals allow valence electrons to become detached easily from individual atoms.
2
Determine the nature of the attractive force holding the lattice together
Strong electrostatic attraction acts non-directionally between the positive ions and the mobile electron sea.
Opposite charges attract each other, forming a stable metallic lattice.

Key Concept

Nature of Metallic Bonding
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Metallic Bonding and Properties of Metals

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