Question #2393b
1 Answer
The metallic lattice
Explanation:
Metal atoms are attracted to each other by their valence electrons being shared freely in a pattern known as a "lattice", They are tightly packed, held to each other by electrostatic attraction in a regular pattern but not actually bonded. (This is why metals have malleability; the lack of bonds allow the atoms to shift easily when hit. )Most metals have only one or two valence electrons, loosely held since they are so far from the nucleus. These valence electrons move freely from one atom to another, with other electrons moving in to fill the empty 'hole'.
Electricity is the movement of electrons from higher to lower potential (voltage). With a slight 'push' at one end of the wire, electrons move to the next atom, repelling its valence electron which then repels another. Electrical energy is NOT a flow of electrons, similar to water in a pipe; individual electrons don't move far, but the energy pushes rapidly from one atom to another.
Metals conduct heat well since the atoms are closely packed, easily transferring kinetic energy from one atom to another
