Question

Which element has a crystalline lattice through which electrons flow freely

Answer 1

Metals have a crystalline lattice that allows free movement of delocalized electrons, making them conductive.

Step-by-step explanation:

The element that has a crystalline lattice through which electrons flow freely is a metal. In a metallic crystal, metal cations are surrounded by a “sea” of mobile valence electrons, also known as delocalized electrons. These electrons can move through the entire crystal, conducting electricity effectively. This is because the metal ions (often visualized as positive ions due to their loss of valence electrons) are arranged in a lattice structure with enough space for the electrons to move. The free electrons are not tied to any single atom, which allows them to move freely among the atoms when an electrical field is applied. This property is what makes metals good conductors of electricity as opposed to ionic, covalent network, and molecular crystals, which have different electrical properties.

Answer 2

Copper

Step-by-step explanation:

Metals are often arranged in crystalline lattices. The lattice consists of metal ions with an overlying sea of electrons. The conductivity of a metal depends on the nature of this crystal lattice. Naturally, some metals conduct electricity better than others. The unique properties of the crystal lattice of copper allow electrons to flow through it freely especially when it is drawn into a wire.