Metals are malleable and ductile because
Correct answer: C. layers of positive ions can slide over one another while the sea of delocalised electrons holds them together
- A. their atoms are held in rigid directional covalent bonds
- B. they contain no free electrons
- C. layers of positive ions can slide over one another while the sea of delocalised electrons holds them together
- D. their ions are held by hydrogen bonds
Explanation
Metallic bonding is non directional, so displacing one layer of cations does not break the structure because the delocalised electrons continue to bind whatever arrangement results. An ionic crystal shatters instead, because sliding brings like charges opposite each other and the layers repel. The same free electrons account for electrical and thermal conductivity.
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About Ionic and Molecular Crystals
Ionic crystals contain oppositely charged ions held by electrostatic forces, whereas molecular crystals contain discrete molecules joined by weaker intermolecular forces. Their structures explain differences in melting point, hardness, volatility, solubility and electrical conductivity, especially between solid and molten states.
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