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Giant Metallic Structure

Key Stage 4

Meaning

A giant metallic structure is a group of metal atoms held together by metallic bonds.

About Giant Metallic Structures

In giant metallic structure the metal atoms are held together as a lattice of positive ions surrounded by a sea of delocalised electrons.
In a pure element the atoms are arranged in a regular lattice.
When there is a mixture of metal elements it is called an alloy and the different atoms change the pattern in the lattice.
A small number of different metal atoms added to a material can change the physical properties and chemical properties of the material.

Bulk Properties

Property Reason
Malleable and ductile The delocalised electrons are free to move so when the metal ions slide past each other the metallic bonds remain just as strong and the material doesn't break.
Good Electrical Conductor The delocalised electrons are free to move in an electrical current.
Good Thermal Conductor The delocalised electrons are free to move through the metal carrying thermal energy through the material.
High Melting Point There is a strong electrostatic force between the positive ions and the delocalised electrons.

References

AQA

Giant metallic structures, pages 54-55, GCSE Chemistry; Third Edition, Oxford University Press, AQA