1.3.4

Metallic Bonding

Test yourself

Metals and Metallic Bonding

Metals bond in a different way to non-metals

Illustrative background for Sea of free electronsIllustrative background for Sea of free electrons ?? "content

Sea of free electrons

  • In a metal, the valence electrons delocalise and can move about the entire material.
  • This is referred to as a 'sea of free electrons'.
  • Metallic bonding is viewed as a sea of free electrons surrounding positive ion cores.
  • The positive ion cores are attracted to the free electrons.
    • You can think of the free electrons as a glue, holding the positive ion cores together.
Illustrative background for Electrical conductivityIllustrative background for Electrical conductivity ?? "content

Electrical conductivity

  • Metals are good electrical conductors because the free electrons can move and carry current.
    • A general term for moving particles which carry current is 'charge carriers'.
Illustrative background for Melting pointIllustrative background for Melting point ?? "content

Melting point

  • The melting point of a metal is related to its group - a group 2 metal will donate two electrons to the sea of free electrons.
    • This means that the positive ion cores carry a 2+ charge.
    • The 2+ ion has a stronger attraction to the free electrons.
    • This means the melting point is higher.
    • For example, Na melts at 98oC, but Mg melts at 650oC!

Jump to other topics

1Physical Chemistry

2Physical Chemistry 2 (A2 Only)

3Inorganic Chemistry

4Inorganic Chemistry 2 (A2 Only)

5Organic Chemistry 1

6Organic Chemistry 2 (A2 Only)

6.1Optical Isomerism (A2 Only)

6.2Aldehydes & Ketones (A2 Only)

6.3Carboxylic Acids & Esters (A2 Only)

6.4Aromatic Chemistry (A2 Only)

6.5Amines (A2 Only)

6.6Polymers (A2 Only)

6.7Biological Organic (A2 Only)

6.8Organic Synthesis (A2 Only)

6.9NMR Spectroscopy (A2 Only)

6.10Chromatography (A2 Only)

6.11A-A* (AO3/4) - Organic 2

Go student ad image

Unlock your full potential with GoStudent tutoring

  • Affordable 1:1 tutoring from the comfort of your home

  • Tutors are matched to your specific learning needs

  • 30+ school subjects covered

Book a free trial lesson