HONORS CHEMISTRY

SUMMER 2014
Recall that metals are more stable when they
lose electrons to obtain a full valence shell.
If no nonmetal is present to accept the extra
valence electrons, metals release the electrons to
freely travel throughout the collection of metal
ions.

The delocalized electrons explain many properties of
metals.
Electrons have a clear path through the
solid so metals have high electrical
conductivity.
Metals are also able to conduct heat via
the mobile electrons.
Layers of metal are held tightly by the sea of electrons so
they are hard to pull apart and are tough, but the
individual atoms can slip past each other easily so metals
are ductile.
The characteristic shine of many metals is
attributed to the mobile electrons reflecting light.