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Atomic Structure

What are the Properties of Metals?

It is the delocalised electrons (free electrons)
that give metals their properties.

1. The delocalised electrons cause metals to conduct heat and electricity.

2. The delocalised electrons allow the metal ions to slide over each other.
This makes metals malleable which means that they
are soft, easily bent and shaped, and can be pressed
or beaten into thin sheets. Metals are also ductile
which means that they can be drawn down into wires.

3. The delocalised electrons in the structure give metals
high melting points and boiling points. All metals are solid
at room temperature except mercury, which is liquid.

The properties of a metal can be changed
by mixing in other elements to make an alloy.

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