Metallic crystal

Metallic crystal structure is that of metal atoms surrounded by a sea of valence electrons. Electrons are given by the metal atoms and belong to the crystal as a whole. The ability of outer-structure electrons to move throughout the crystal explains its high electric conductivity. Melting points of metallic crystals vary greatly. Elements that form metallic crystals include mercury (Hg), copper (Cu), iron (Fe) and tungsten (W).

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See also

• Crystals

Sources

• Holt, Rinehart and Wineston, Modern Chemist.