Question

Naomi is testing the different properties of an unknown solid. Her results are located in the chart. Which statement describes the chemical nature of the bonding in the substance? a) When chilled, the atoms rolled over each other while still staying together, causing a lower temperature. b) When heated, the valance electrons increased their speed and transferred the heat from electron to electron. c) When treated with light, the atoms rolled over each other while still staying together, causing a reflection of light. d) When treated with an applied force, the valence electrons increased their speed and transferred the change from electron to electron.

Answer 1

The correct statement describing the chemical nature of the bonding in the substance is : b) When heated, the valance electrons increased their speed and transferred the heat from electron to electron.

This statement suggests that the substance has metallic bonding. In metals, valence electrons are delocalized and can move freely throughout the structure. When heat is applied, these electrons gain kinetic energy and transfer it by colliding with other electrons and lattice ions, effectively conducting heat.

This behavior is characteristic of metallic bonding, where the shared electrons form a "sea of electrons" that allows for excellent thermal conductivity. The other options describe properties that are more related to other types of bonding, such as covalent, ionic, or reflection of light, which are not consistent with metallic bonding.

Therefore, the correct statement describing the chemical nature of the bonding in the substance is : b)