Beginner Topic 121 of 1102 Bonding & Molecular Structure
Metallic Bond
Attraction between positive metal ions and a sea of delocalized electrons.
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In-depth explanation of Metallic Bond
In a metal, valence electrons are not tied to any particular atom but are delocalized over the entire lattice of positive cations. The attraction between the cations and this mobile electron sea holds the metal together. Because the electrons move freely, metals conduct heat and electricity well and can be hammered or drawn into shapes, since layers of cations can slide past one another without breaking the bonding. Bond strength generally increases with the number of valence electrons contributed per atom and with decreasing ion size. This is why melting points vary so widely across the periodic table.
Going deeper: Metallic Bond
Key ideas: Metallic bonding strength tracks the number of delocalized electrons per atom and the charge density of the cation. Na gives one electron and melts at 98 C, Mg gives two and melts at 650 C, Al gives three and melts at 660 C. Transition metals add d electrons and are harder with higher melting points.
Common mistakes and connections: Students say the electrons belong to nobody, or that metallic bonds are ionic bonds between metal ions and electrons. Also, the metallic bond is nondirectional, which is why it differs from covalent bonding. Mercury and gallium show that melting points do not follow a simple trend. Links to band theory, alloys and conductivity.
Visualization of Metallic Bond
Metal cations sit in a close-packed lattice such as face-centred cubic, bathed in delocalized valence electrons that bind the whole structure. The interactive lesson shows this as a live animation or chart.
Worked example and use case
Tungsten melts at about 3422 degrees Celsius, whereas sodium melts at only 98 degrees Celsius.
Frequently asked questions about Metallic Bond
What is Metallic Bond?
Attraction between positive metal ions and a sea of delocalized electrons.
Is Metallic Bond a beginner, intermediate or advanced topic?
Metallic Bond is a beginner topic in Bonding & Molecular Structure. It needs no earlier chemistry lessons and is a good starting point.
What should I learn before Metallic Bond?
Study these earlier topics in Bonding & Molecular Structure first: Duet Rule, Ionic Bond, Covalent Bond.
What comes after Metallic Bond?
The next topics in Bonding & Molecular Structure are Lewis Dot Symbols and Lewis Structures.
Can I practise Metallic Bond with quizzes?
Yes. The interactive lesson includes a self-check question on Metallic Bond, and the Bonding & Molecular Structure quiz draws on every topic in this area.
Where Metallic Bond fits in Bonding & Molecular Structure
Metallic Bond is topic 6 of 104 in Bonding & Molecular Structure.