What is different about the atomic structure of metals that allows them to conduct electricity and be ductile?

Answer 1

The atomic structure of metals is characterized by a closely packed arrangement of atoms with a relatively low ionization energy and a high number of valence electrons that are delocalized across the lattice. This makes metals good conductors of electricity and heat, as the delocalized electrons are free to move throughout the metal lattice, carrying electrical charge and energy. Additionally, the closely packed arrangement of atoms in metals also allows for the movement of atoms, which gives metals their ductility or ability to be deformed without losing strength. This is due to the ability of metal atoms to slide past each other smoothly without breaking chemical bonds. In summary, the high conductivity and ductility of metals are due to the unique arrangement and properties of their atomic structure.