Metallic Bonding: GCSE Chemistry Definition

What is metallic bonding?

In GCSE chemistry, metallic bonding refers to the electrostatic attraction between positively charged metal ions and delocalised electrons. Metallic bonding occurs in metals and alloys (mixtures of metals).

Metals consist of giant lattices. In the lattice, the outer electrons of the atoms are loosely held and therefore no longer specific to a particular atom. They are said to be ‘delocalised.’ As a result of losing electrons, the metal atoms become positive metal ions. There are strong forces of attraction between the delocalised, negatively charged electrons and the positive metal ions. These forces need lots of energy to overcome and as a result, metals have high melting points. The delocalised electrons are able to move through the metal, so metals can conduct electricity. 

Metallic Bonding Revision Resources to Ace Your Exams

A common higher level question will ask you to describe the bonding in a metal, and link this to its properties. You can revise this using our metallic bonding revision notes and applying your knowledge to our bonding topic questions. 

Explore Our GCSE Chemistry Revision Resources