Describe the key properties that rely upon metallic bonding and explain this.

Metallic bonding consists of a strong electrostatic attraction between positive metal cations and delocalised electrons. This arrangement is regular and the attraction is non-directional meaning that layers can easily experience a slip in their layers. As a result, a metal is malleable and can be bent and shaped without breaking.Metals are also electrically conductive. In order to conduct electricity, a material must contain charge carriers that are free to move about. In this case, the delocalised electrons act as free-moving negative charges, allowing for this. A final property to consider is the high melting and boiling point of the metal. The attraction between the ions and the electrons is particularly strong due to the close-packing and regularity of the arrangement of them in the structure.

TH
Answered by Tesni H. Chemistry tutor

2248 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Calculate the empirical formula of a compound containing 77.7% Iron and 22.3% of oxygen.


What chemical test can be used to differentiate between alkenes and alkanes. Describe and explain the results.


Explain the reactions of CH3CH2Cl with the nucleophile NH3 and name the initial product formed.


How does ionic bonding work and what is the structure of an ionic compound?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning