Metals can be hammered into shape without breaking. Which statement explains this?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Layers of positive ions can slide over each other while the delocalised electrons keep holding them together
- Step 1: A metal is a lattice of positive ions in a sea of delocalised electrons.
- Step 2: The bonding is non-directional, so layers can slide without breaking the structure.
Answer
Layers of positive ions can slide over each other while the delocalised electrons keep holding them together.
Why not the others: Layers of ions repel each other when they slide, which allows the metal to flex: sliding does not cause repulsion because the electron sea holds the layers. Metal atoms are held in fixed positions by rigid covalent bonds: metallic bonding is non-directional, not covalent. The delocalised electrons are fixed between pairs of atoms: the electrons are free to move through the lattice.
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