Question

Which statement describes the valence electrons in metallic bonds?

Answer 1

Valence electrons in metallic bonds are delocalized, allowing them to move freely and contribute to properties like conductivity and malleability. The metallic bond consists of the attraction between cations and a 'sea of electrons,' resulting in varying strengths and melting points for different metals.

Step-by-step explanation:

The valence electrons in metallic bonds are delocalized, which means that they do not belong to any one atom but are free to move about the entire metal structure. The metallic bond is characterized by an electrostatic attraction between the positively charged nuclei, known as cations, and these free-moving, or delocalized, valence electrons. This forms a 'sea of electrons' that is responsible for many properties of metals such as conductivity, malleability, and ductility.

In solid metals, these valence electrons can move relatively easily throughout the crystalline lattice, forming an attraction with positive ions. The strength of these bonds varies, but typically metallic bonds are weaker than ionic or covalent bonds, with dissociation energies ranging from 1 to 3 eV. Some metals have very high melting points and are hard, while others are softer and have lower melting points, primarily depending on the number of delocalized electrons.

Answer 2

They are shared among many atoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

In metallic bonds, the valence electrons of interacting metal atoms from s and p orbitals are delocalized. Therefore, instead of revolving their respective metal atoms they form a sea of electrons.

Therefore, the positively charged atomic nuclei of the interacting metal ions gets surrounded by this sea of electrons.

Hence, we can conclude that the valence electrons in metallic bonds are shared among many atoms.