9.1

Properties of metals

10 flashcards to master Properties of metals

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Definition Flip

Describe metallic bonding in terms of structure and forces.

Answer Flip

Metallic bonding consists of positive ions in a sea of delocalized electrons. There is a strong attraction between these positive ions and the delocalized electrons, holding the metal atoms together.

Key Concept Flip

Explain why metals are good conductors of electricity.

Answer Flip

Metals are good conductors because they have delocalized electrons that are mobile and can flow freely throughout the structure, carrying an electrical charge.

Key Concept Flip

Explain why metals are good conductors of thermal energy.

Answer Flip

Delocalized electrons can move quickly through the structure transferring kinetic energy. Vibrations of the positive metal ions also contribute to thermal conductivity.

Definition Flip

Define malleability.

Answer Flip

Malleability is the ability of a metal to be hammered or pressed into shape without breaking. This is because the layers of atoms can slide over each other without disrupting the metallic bond.

Definition Flip

Define ductility.

Answer Flip

Ductility is the ability of a metal to be drawn into wires. The layers of atoms can slide over each other without disrupting the metallic bond.

Key Concept Flip

Compare the general melting and boiling points of metals to those of non-metals.

Answer Flip

Metals generally have high melting and boiling points due to the strong electrostatic forces of attraction between the positive ions and the sea of delocalized electrons. Non-metals typically have lower melting and boiling points.

Key Concept Flip

What type of product is formed when a metal reacts with an acid?

Answer Flip

When a metal reacts with a dilute acid, a salt and hydrogen gas are produced.

Example: Mg(s) + 2HCl(aq) -> MgCl2(aq) + H2(g)
Key Concept Flip

What is the general reaction between a metal and oxygen?

Answer Flip

A metal reacts with oxygen to form a metal oxide.

Example: 2Mg(s) + O2(g) -> 2MgO(s)
Key Concept Flip

Describe the reaction of sodium with cold water.

Answer Flip

Sodium reacts vigorously with cold water to produce sodium hydroxide and hydrogen gas. The reaction is exothermic and produces a large amount of heat. Equation: 2Na(s) + 2H2O(l) -> 2NaOH(aq) + H2(g)

Key Concept Flip

Describe the reaction of iron with steam.

Answer Flip

Iron reacts with steam (hot water in gaseous form) to produce iron oxide and hydrogen gas. The reaction is slower than with cold water and requires high temperatures. Equation: 3Fe(s) + 4H2O(g) -> Fe3O4(s) + 4H2(g)

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8.5 Transition elements 9.2 Reactivity series

Key Questions: Properties of metals

Describe metallic bonding in terms of structure and forces.

Metallic bonding consists of positive ions in a sea of delocalized electrons. There is a strong attraction between these positive ions and the delocalized electrons, holding the metal atoms together.

Define malleability.

Malleability is the ability of a metal to be hammered or pressed into shape without breaking. This is because the layers of atoms can slide over each other without disrupting the metallic bond.

Define ductility.

Ductility is the ability of a metal to be drawn into wires. The layers of atoms can slide over each other without disrupting the metallic bond.

About Properties of metals (9.1)

These 10 flashcards cover everything you need to know about Properties of metals for your Cambridge IGCSE Chemistry (0620) exam. Each card is designed based on the official syllabus requirements.

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