Learning objective

Explain malleability and ductility using metallic bonding.

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Topic

Bonding

Subtopic

Metallic bonding

AQA A Level ChemistryPhysical chemistry

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Understand this objective

Short explanation

Metallic bonding is characterized by the attraction between positive metal ions and delocalised electrons. This bonding structure allows layers of atoms to slide over each other, which is the basis for malleability. When a force is applied, the delocalised electrons help to maintain the metallic bond even as the structure deforms, allowing the metal to be shaped without breaking. Ductility, the ability to stretch into wires, also arises from this property, as the layers can be drawn out while the metallic bonds remain intact due to the presence of delocalised electrons.

Key concepts

metallic bondingmalleability

Why it matters

This objective helps connect Metallic bonding to exam-style questions, flashcards, and revision notes for Bonding.

Common mistakes

1 linked

Misunderstanding Malleability: Malleability refers to the ability of a metal to be hammered or rolled into thin sheets, while ductility is the ability to be drawn into wires. To explain malleability using metallic bonding, state that the layers of positive ions in a metal can slide over each other due to the presence of delocalised electrons, which allows the metal to change shape without breaking. This is because the metallic bond remains intact as the delocalised electrons can move with the ions.

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