Metallic Bonding
3 marks · EasyCopper is a useful metal in electrical wiring and making utensils. State and explain two properties of copper that are important for these uses.
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Must show: Electrical conductivity explained by delocalised electrons, Malleability/ductility explained by sliding layers, Each property with suitable explanation
Also accept: Allow ductility or high melting point as alternatives to malleability
Common mistakes: Not explaining property in terms of bonding; Mentioning properties not relevant for these uses
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Marking points
B1 (a) · 1 mark · States copper conducts electricity well and explains that delocalised electrons move through the structure.
B2 (a) · 1 mark · States copper is malleable/ductile and explains that layers of ions slide without breaking bonds.
B3 (a) · 1 mark · Each property given with correct explanation linked to structure or bonding.
Worked solution
Copper is a good conductor of electricity because it has delocalised electrons that can move through the structure. Copper is also malleable (can be hammered into shape) because the layers of positive ions can slide over each other without breaking the metallic bonds.