METALS

• The properties of metals can be explained by particle theory.
• Some metals are tough , they don't break easily because there are very strong bonds between the particles.
• Some metals are shiny , they reflect light , especially when they are polished / cut
• Metals conduct heat. The particles vibrate vigorously , and transfer energy particle to particle.
• Metals conduct electricity , because metal particles pass on the electric charge from one to another.
• Most metals are malleable, which means that they can be hammered into thin sheets without breaking .
• Copper is used as an electrical conductor because it has high thermal conductivity and high electrical conductivity.
• Most metals are ductile, which means that they can be drawn out into wires or threads without breaking.
• Most metals have high boiling points - bp - and melting points - mp - . This means they can absorb a great deal of energy before melting . This is because the metal particles - atoms - are joined to each other by strong bonds.
• Most metals have high densities , meaning they have many particles closely packed together into a small volume.