234k views
1 vote
Are metallic bonds more or less common in minerals than ionic and covalent bonds?

A. More common
B. Less common
C. Equally common
D. Variable

1 Answer

5 votes

Final answer:

Metallic bonds are less common in minerals than ionic and covalent bonds, as most minerals in Earth's crust are made up of non-metallic elements. Metallic bonding is mainly found in native metals and some intermetallic compounds, but these occur less frequently in comparison.

Step-by-step explanation:

Regarding the commonality of metallic bonds in minerals, compared to ionic and covalent bonds, it varies depending on the elements involved and the conditions under which the mineral forms. However, metallic bonding is less common in the general mineralogy of Earth's crust when compared to ionic and covalent bonds.

Most minerals in the Earth's crust are made up of non-metallic elements and form ionic or covalent bonds. For instance, quartz exhibits a covalent bond, while halite shows ionic bonding. Metallic bonding is primarily observed in native metals and intermetallic compounds, but these are not as common as minerals featuring the other two bond types.

Moreover, while metallic bonds are stronger in terms of electrical conductivity and malleability, they often have lower dissociation energies (1-3 eV) than ionic or covalent bonds. The melting and boiling points in ionic compounds generally exceed those in covalent compounds, and both exceed those of metals, indicating varied bond strengths and types in different mineral classes.

User Cubed Eye
by
9.9k points

No related questions found