When electron clouds overlap, electrons can move into electron cloud of adjoining atoms. Each atom becomes surrounded by a number of others in a 3-D lattice, where valence electrons move freely from 1 valence shell to another. Delocalised valence electrons moving between nuclei generate a binding force to hold the atoms together. This table shows metallic properties and the explanations of these properties. Observation Explanation Metals are dense The particles present in metals are tightly packed in the lattice.
Metals have high melting and boiling points.
Strong forces of attraction exist between particles. A Large amount of thermal energy is required to overcome the strong electrical forces between the positive ions and the delocalised electrons. These forces operate throughout the lattice. Metals are good conductors of heat. Delocalised electrons transmit the energy of vibrations of 1 positive ion to its neighbours.