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Paper 1

Bonding, Structure, and Properties

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Metallic bonding with delocalised electrons

Metallic bonding explains conductivity and malleability.

Key Facts

  • Graphite conducts because of delocalised electrons.
  • Diamond is hard due to a giant covalent lattice.

Topics Covered

Ionic Bonding

What you need to know

  • Metals lose electrons; non-metals gain electrons.
  • Ions form a giant lattice with strong electrostatic forces.

Exam Tips

  • Explain properties using lattice and strong attraction.

Covalent Bonding

What you need to know

  • Non-metals share electrons.
  • Simple molecules have low melting points.

Exam Tips

  • Mention weak intermolecular forces for simple molecules.

Metallic Bonding

What you need to know

  • Positive ions in a sea of delocalised electrons.
  • Explains electrical conductivity and malleability.

Exam Tips

  • Use the phrase "delocalised electrons."

Key Terms

Ionic bond

Electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions.

Covalent bond

A shared pair of electrons between atoms.

Metallic bond

Attraction between positive ions and delocalised electrons.

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Common Exam Questions

Explain why metals conduct electricity.

3 markseasyPaper 1

Model Answer

Metals contain delocalised electrons that are free to move and carry charge.

What examiners want to see

  • Mention delocalised electrons.
  • Link to charge flow.

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