Chapter 7, Problem 1STP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The description which is supported by the model shown is to be determined:

Concept introduction:

Physical characteristic of metals is as follows:

1. They are good conductors of heat and electricity.
2. They have a shiny surface.
3. Malleable and ductile.
4. They are found as solid in room temperature except for mercury (it is liquid at RT).

Answer to Problem 1STP

The model supported description B. Metals are excellent conductors of heat and electricity.

Explanation of Solution

Reason for correct option: The figure given in the question explained that the metals are excellent conductors of heat and electricity. Metals exist in a metallic solid. The figure shows that cations are encompassed by a sea of delocalized electrons. Metals conduct heat and electricity very well because the ions are close packing and the delocalized electrons conduct kinetic energy. Therefore, option B is correct.

Conclusion

Reason for incorrect option: A. Metals are shiny, reflective substances. It is a characteristic of the metal. But the figure does not explain why this property exists. So, option A, does not verify the figure.

C. Ionic compounds are malleable compounds. This statement is not correct because ionic solids disperse when an outside force is applied to them. The figure shows that cations encompassed by a sea of electrons. That means the figure apparently introducing metallic solids, not ionic solids. Therefore, option C, does not support the figure.

D. Ionic compounds are good conductors of electricity. This statement is not correct because it specified that the ionic compound conducts electricity only in the melted or dissolved state. The given figure shows that cations surrounded by a sea of electrons. That means the figure clearly referring metallic solids not ionic solids. Therefore, option C, does not support the figure.