Metallic Bonding (AQA GCSE Chemistry: Combined Science)

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Metallic structure

Metallic structure

  • Metals consist of giant structures of atoms arranged in a regular pattern
  • Electrons in the outer shell of metal atoms are lost
  • Individual metal atoms are held together by strong metallic bonds forming a lattice structure
  • This type of bonding occurs in metals and metal alloys, which are mixtures of metal
  • Within the metal lattice, the atoms lose their valence electrons and become positively charged metal ions
  • The valence electrons no longer belong to any specific metal atom and are said to be delocalised
  • This means they can move freely between the positive metal ions and act like a “sea of electrons”

Metallic structure

Representation of metallic bonding

Diagram showing the ways of representing a metal lattice structure with delocalised electrons

Examiner Tip

Delocalised electrons are not transferred as in ionic bonding, they are merely moving freely in the spaces in-between the nuclei of metal atoms.

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Stewart

Author: Stewart

Expertise: Chemistry Lead

Stewart has been an enthusiastic GCSE, IGCSE, A Level and IB teacher for more than 30 years in the UK as well as overseas, and has also been an examiner for IB and A Level. As a long-standing Head of Science, Stewart brings a wealth of experience to creating Exam Questions and revision materials for Save My Exams. Stewart specialises in Chemistry, but has also taught Physics and Environmental Systems and Societies.