Section 4-2 What gives metals their distinctive properties?

1. Section 4-2 What gives metals their distinctive properties?

2. Characteristics of Metals • Elements that are shiny, malleable, ductile and good conductors of heat and electricity • Malleable – hammered or rolled into sheets • Ductile – can be drawn into wires • The properties of metal depend on the unique configuration of electrons, protons, and neutrons • Alloy – a solid or liquid solution of two or more metals • brass • Steel

3. More on Metals • Atoms of metal usually have three electrons in their outermost energy level • Metallic Bonding – positively charged metallic ions are surrounded by a sea of electrons

4. Crystals • Crystals – a substance in which the atoms or molecules are arranged in an orderly geometric, repeating pattern • The outer electrons in atoms bind together in a crystal • These electrons are in orbitals • Electrons in the higher orbitals are free to move throughout the crystal this forms the conduction band

5. The Conduction Band • A band in which electrons must move to allow electrical conduction • Similar to the sea of electrons

6. The Structure of Metallic Crystals • Atoms pack together in the densest fashion • Think of it as fruits in a basket