Which type of chemical bond is most commonly formed between atoms in a sample of iron (Fe)?

• A. Covalent bond
• B. Metallic bond
• C. Hydrogen bond
• D. Ionic bond

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Identify the type of elements involved. Iron (Fe) is a metal element, which influences the type of bonding it typically forms.
2. Step 2: Recall the common types of chemical bonds: covalent bonds (sharing of electrons between nonmetals), ionic bonds (transfer of electrons between metals and nonmetals), hydrogen bonds (a special dipole-dipole interaction involving hydrogen), and metallic bonds (delocalized electrons shared among metal atoms).
3. Step 3: Understand that in a sample of pure metal like iron, atoms are arranged in a lattice where valence electrons are not localized between individual atoms but are free to move throughout the structure.
4. Step 4: Recognize that this 'sea of electrons' model describes metallic bonding, which is characteristic of metals such as iron.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the most common type of bond in a sample of iron is the metallic bond, due to the delocalized electrons that hold the metal atoms together.