Question

State whether each of the following properties is more typical of a metal or a nonmetal: (a) dense solid (b) low boiling point (c) ductile (d) reacts with metals

Short answer

(a) Metal, (b) Nonmetal, (c) Metal, (d) Nonmetal.

Step-by-step solution

Identify Property of Dense Solid

Metals are typically found in solid states and are dense due to their tightly packed atoms. Therefore, if a material is a dense solid, it is more characteristic of a metal.

Assess Property of Low Boiling Point

Nonmetals generally have relatively low boiling points compared to metals, which often have higher boiling points due to strong metallic bonding. Thus, a low boiling point is more typical of a nonmetal.

Determine Property of Ductility

Ductility is the ability of a material to be stretched into a wire without breaking. This property is typical of metals because the atoms in metals can slide past each other without breaking the metallic bond. Hence, if a material is ductile, it is more likely a metal.

Evaluate Reaction with Metals

Nonmetals tend to react with metals to form ionic compounds because nonmetals are usually electron acceptors while metals are electron donors. Therefore, a material that reacts with metals is more typical of a nonmetal.

Key concepts

Metallic Bonding

Metallic bonding is a distinct type of chemical bonding that holds metals together. It arises from the collective sharing of free electrons among a lattice of metal atoms. This unique bonding happens because metal atoms have electrons in their outer shell that they do not use for bonding to any specific other atom. Instead, these electrons are free to move through the entire structure. This phenomenon is often described as a "sea of electrons."

This "sea" allows metals to conduct electricity and heat efficiently, as the free-moving electrons can easily transfer energy. The strong force between these electrons and the positively charged metal ions creates a stable structure, contributing to properties like high boiling points. Unlike other types of bonds, such as ionic or covalent, metallic bonds impart malleability and durability to metals. This flexibility stems from atoms being able to shift near each other without breaking the matrix. Such properties make metals suitable for a variety of industrial applications.

Ductility

Ductility refers to a material's capacity to be drawn into a wire or thread. This property is typical of metals, and it's primarily due to the nature of metallic bonding. In metals, atoms are arranged in layers within the crystalline structure. When a force is applied, these layers can slide past one another without fracturing the material.

Several factors contribute to ductility:

• Free Electrons: The "sea of electrons" allows atoms to move without losing their bonds.
• Atomic Layers: The layers of atoms in metallic crystals can shift under stress, maintaining structural integrity.
• Reduced resistance to deformation: Metals tend not to shatter, which makes them pliable.

Metals like gold, silver, and copper showcase exceptional ductility. This property is exploited in industries where thin wires or complex structures are needed. Understanding ductility helps in selecting appropriate metals for electrical wiring, bridges, and machinery parts.

Ionic Compounds

Ionic compounds are formed through the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions. This phenomenon usually occurs between metals and nonmetals. Metals, which tend to lose electrons, form positive ions or cations, while nonmetals, which tend to gain electrons, form negative ions or anions.

This transfer of electrons leads to the creation of strong, stable ionic bonds. Ionic compounds tend to have distinct properties:

• High melting and boiling points: Due to the strength of the electrostatic forces.
• Electrical conductivity when dissolved: The ions become free to move in solutions or when melted, allowing electricity to flow.
• Solubility in water: Many ionic compounds dissolve in polar solvents.

Ionic compounds play a vital role in various applications, such as in generating energy through batteries, forming essential components of bones and teeth, and as key ingredients in fertilizers. Understanding how ionic bonds work helps in comprehending the stability and reactivity of these compounds.