Final answer:
The density of metals is a result of their internal close-packed crystal structures, with atoms tightly arranged to maximize space efficiency, leading to strong interatomic bonds and efficient transfer of heat and electricity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The fact that metals are dense can be attributed to their internal crystal structures. In the context of terrestrial planets, the presence of heavy metals in the core suggests that their internal structures are organized such that the denser materials have sunk to the center due to gravity, indicative of a past where these materials could move more freely, likely in a molten state. When we look at metals on a microscopic level, we find that their atoms are arranged in close-packed structures, which means that each atom is surrounded by as many neighboring atoms as possible, minimizing empty space and maximizing density.
Metals, due to their tightly packed atomic arrangements, exhibit properties like electricity and heat conductivity, malleability, ductility, high melting points, and a characteristic metallic lustre. The dense atomic packing translates to strong interatomic bonds that require substantial energy to break apart, leading to high melting points, and the close contact of atoms allows for efficient heat and electric charge transfer.
In summary, metallic density provides insights into both the macroscopic and microscopic characteristics of metals, attributing the density to the efficient atomic packing and strong interatomic interactions within their crystalline structure.