Giant Metallic Lattices
Chemistry: Cambridge International A Level, topic 1.4.7
Structure of Solid State Metals
Metals in a solid state have a macrostructure defined by atoms arranged in rows and held together through the principles of metallic bonding.
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Metallic lattices
- All metals, when solid, display their atoms in a giant metallic lattice.
- Atoms are arranged in regular rows, held in place through electrostatic attraction between the positive metal ions and their delocalised electrons.
- Rows are able to slide over each other, giving metals their characteristic ability to bend and be beaten into shape (malleable).
Melting and boiling points
- Metals have a high level of attraction between the metal ions and the electrons.
- This makes metals have high melting and boiling points.
- Metals with more delocalised electrons tend to have higher melting and boiling points.
Conducting electricity
- Metals have delocalised electrons. This means they are free to move within a metal's lattice structure.
- The movement of free electrons allows electricity to be conducted by metals.
Strength of attraction
- Metals have a strong attraction between the positive metal ions and the negative electrons.
- The strength of these attractions means metals do not dissolve easily.
Test yourself on Giant Metallic Lattices
Why do metals conduct electricity?