Which statement best describes what the electron sea model for metals suggests?

• A. Valence electrons are delocalized and move freely throughout the metal lattice.
• B. Metal atoms share electrons in fixed pairs, similar to ionic bonding.
• C. Metals consist of positive ions surrounded by a rigid network of nonmetal atoms.
• D. Electrons are tightly bound to individual atoms, forming localized covalent bonds.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the electron sea model is a way to describe bonding in metals, focusing on how valence electrons behave.
2. Recall that in metals, valence electrons are not fixed to any one atom but are free to move throughout the entire metal structure.
3. Recognize that this delocalization of electrons allows metals to conduct electricity and heat efficiently, as electrons can flow freely.
4. Contrast this with ionic or covalent bonding, where electrons are either transferred or shared in fixed pairs between specific atoms.
5. Conclude that the electron sea model suggests valence electrons are delocalized and move freely throughout the metal lattice, which explains many metallic properties.