Question

Metallic bonding is possible because the electrons
Are both positive and negative
Move freely among the metal ions

Answer 1

Metallic bonding occurs because the electrons **move freely among the metal ions**. In metallic bonds, metal atoms release some of their electrons, forming a "sea of electrons" that are not bound to any specific atom. This delocalization of electrons allows them to move freely throughout the metal, which contributes to properties such as electrical conductivity, malleability, and ductility. The metallic bonds hold the positively charged metal ions together in a lattice structure, but it is the mobility of these electrons that is key to the characteristics of metals.