Question

Why are metals malleable and ionic compounds brittle?

Accepted Answer

Metals are malleable, meaning that they can be shaped by hammering or by a mechanical press without losing structural integrity. As the metal cations are surrounded by electrons, the positive ions can slide over and past one another without causing disruption to the metallic bonding making them malleable.

On the other hands, if the ionic compounds are placed under stress, such as being hit with a hammer, this could result in a shift in the planes of ions. If ions of the same charge came into contact, the repulsive forces would cause the crystal to shatter. This makes them brittle.

Note : Metallic bonding is not affected when stress is applied to the metal. The positive ions can move over one another without repulsion because the electrons are free to move too.

Gary Horner Solutions for Chapter: Models, Exercise 18: Exercise 18

Gary Horner Chemistry Solutions for Exercise - Gary Horner Solutions for Chapter: Models, Exercise 18: Exercise 18

Questions from Gary Horner Solutions for Chapter: Models, Exercise 18: Exercise 18 with Hints & Solutions

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