Which statement is true when a crystal is formed from many metal atoms?

• A. The metal atoms arrange themselves randomly without any repeating pattern.
• B. Each metal atom forms discrete covalent bonds with its neighboring atoms.
• C. The metal atoms lose all their electrons and become positively charged ions held together by ionic bonds.
• D. The metal atoms share their valence electrons, creating a 'sea of electrons' that allows for electrical conductivity.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the nature of metallic bonding: In a metal crystal, metal atoms do not form discrete covalent bonds or ionic bonds but instead share their valence electrons collectively.
2. Recognize that metal atoms arrange themselves in a highly ordered, repeating pattern called a crystal lattice, not randomly.
3. Recall that in metallic bonding, valence electrons become delocalized and move freely throughout the lattice, forming what is called a 'sea of electrons'.
4. This 'sea of electrons' is responsible for the characteristic properties of metals, such as electrical conductivity and malleability.
5. Therefore, the true statement is that metal atoms share their valence electrons, creating a 'sea of electrons' that allows for electrical conductivity.