Final answer:
Metals are shiny due to luster, which is a result of the way their electrons interact with light. This property, along with conductivity, malleability, and ductility, is a result of the unique structure and bonding of metals.
Step-by-step explanation:
Metals are shiny because they have a property called luster. Luster refers to the ability of a material to reflect light. When light hits the surface of a metal, it interacts with the electrons in the metal and reflects back, giving the metal a shiny appearance. This property is due to the arrangement of electrons in metals, which allows them to absorb and re-emit light.
In addition to luster, metals also have other characteristic properties such as conductivity of electricity and heat, malleability, and ductility. These properties are related to the structure and bonding of metals. The presence of free electrons in metals allows them to easily conduct electricity and heat. The arrangement of atoms in metals is also responsible for their ability to be hammered into thin sheets (malleability) and drawn into thin wires (ductility).
In summary, metals are shiny due to their luster, which is a result of the way their electrons interact with light. This property, along with other characteristic properties such as conductivity, malleability, and ductility, is a result of the unique structure and bonding of metals.