Chapter 14.3, Problem 4RQ

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The difference between the metals and an atomic solids such as diamond needs to be explained.

Concept introduction: A crystalline solid is characterized by regular arrangement of its components. There are many types of crystalline solids such as ionic solids, molecular solids, covalent network solids, and metallic solids.

Answer to Problem 4RQ

Metallic solids differ from an atomic solids such as diamond on the basis of attractive force, physical nature, and electrical conductivity.

Explanation of Solution

Metallic solids	Atomic solids
Metal atoms are held in their lattice position by strong metallic bonding force.	In diamond each carbon atom is bound covalently to four other carbon atoms to produce a giant molecular structure.
It can be soft to very hard.	It is always very hard.
It can have low to very high melting point.	It always have very high melting point.
High thermal and electrical conduction is observed.	Low thermal and electrical conduction is observed.

Conclusion

Metallic solids differ from atomic solids such as diamond on the basis of attractive force, physical nature, and electrical conductivity.