Can Someone explain the physical properties of metals, using the theory of metallic bonding
There is a lot of reading here, most of it not what you are looking for, so scroll down ABOUT half way and you will come to a paragraph that explains conduction of metals as the metal core sourrounded by a sea of electrons which move .....etc. This is the part you want. Good Luck.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metal
Sure! The physical properties of metals can be explained using the theory of metallic bonding. Metallic bonding is a type of chemical bonding that occurs between metal atoms.
In metallic bonding, the valence electrons of metal atoms are delocalized and form a "sea" of mobile electrons. These electrons are not associated with any particular atom and are free to move throughout the metal lattice.
This delocalization of electrons leads to several physical properties of metals:
1. Electrical conductivity: Metals are excellent conductors of electricity because of the presence of these delocalized electrons. When a voltage is applied, the electrons can easily move and carry the electrical charge throughout the metal.
2. Thermal conductivity: Metals also have high thermal conductivity due to the ability of the delocalized electrons to transfer heat energy rapidly within the metal lattice.
3. Malleability and Ductility: Metals are generally malleable and ductile, meaning that they can be easily hammered into thin sheets or drawn into wires, respectively. The delocalized electrons enable the metal atoms to slide past each other without breaking the metallic bonds.
4. Luster: Metals have a shiny or lustrous appearance due to their ability to reflect light. When light hits the metal surface, the delocalized electrons absorb and re-emit the photons, resulting in the characteristic metallic shine.
5. High melting and boiling points: The strong metallic bonds between the metal atoms require a considerable amount of energy to break, leading to high melting and boiling points for most metals.
Overall, the theory of metallic bonding explains the unique physical properties displayed by metals, making them highly useful in various applications.