3.3.1 - Metal structure, bonding and properties Flashcards
(25 cards)
What type of structure do metals have?
Giant metallic lattice structure
Atoms are arranged in a regular pattern.
What happens to metal atoms in terms of their electrons?
Metal atoms lose their outer electrons, forming positive metal ions
This occurs in a sea of delocalized electrons.
What is the term for the attraction between positive metal ions and delocalized electrons?
Metallic bonding
What are the properties of metals due to metallic bonding?
- High melting & boiling points
- Good conductors of electricity & heat
- Malleable
- Ductile
- High density
- Shiny (lustrous)
Why do metals have high melting and boiling points?
Strong metallic bonds require a lot of energy to break
What allows metals to conduct electricity and heat effectively?
Delocalized electrons can move and carry charge/thermal energy
What does it mean for a metal to be malleable?
Layers of atoms can slide over each other without breaking bonds
What does it mean for a metal to be ductile?
Can be stretched into wires because of sliding layers
What is the density characteristic of metals?
High density, as atoms are packed closely together
What does shiny (lustrous) mean in the context of metals?
Reflects light well
What are alloys?
Mixtures of metals (or metals with non-metals) to improve their properties
How do different-sized atoms in alloys affect their properties?
Disrupt the layers, making it harder for them to slide, so alloys are stronger and less malleable than pure metals
What is the composition and a property of Steel?
Iron + Carbon; Strong, tough, can rust
What are some uses of Steel?
Construction, tools, machinery
What is the composition and a property of Brass?
Copper + Zinc; Malleable, corrosion-resistant
What are some uses of Brass?
Instruments, plumbing, fittings
What is the composition and a property of Bronze?
Copper + Tin; Hard, corrosion-resistant, strong
What are some uses of Bronze?
Statues, medals, bearings
What are the properties and uses of Iron?
Strong, magnetic, rusts easily; Construction, machinery
What are the properties and uses of Low Carbon Steel?
Softer, more malleable, rusts; Car bodies, nails, shipbuilding
What are the properties and uses of High Carbon Steel?
Hard, brittle, strong; Cutting tools, blades, springs
What are the properties and uses of Stainless Steel?
Corrosion-resistant, strong; Cutlery, medical tools, sinks
What are the properties and uses of Copper?
Excellent conductor, ductile; Electrical wires, plumbing
What are the properties and uses of Aluminium?
Lightweight, corrosion-resistant; Aircraft, drink cans, bike frames
