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
- In their solid state giant metallic structures are good electrical conductors because it contains delocalised electrons.
- Most ionic compounds are soluble in water.
- When dissolved in solution ionic compounds are good electrical conductors because the electrically charged ions are free to move.
- Ionic compounds form giant ionic structures which have high melting points due to the strong electrostatic force between the ions.
| 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. |