Metallic lattice structure in solid metals

Steps:

• Recall that solid metals consist of a regular arrangement of positive metal ions.
• Identify the key feature: delocalized electrons surround the ions, forming a "sea" of electrons.
• Compare diagrams: look for one showing cations in a lattice with free-moving electrons, not bonds or molecules.
• Select the diagram matching this metallic bonding model.

Why B is correct:

• It depicts positive ions in a fixed lattice surrounded by delocalized electrons, aligning with the metallic bond definition where electrons are free to move.

Why the others are wrong:

• A shows localized electron pairs, representing covalent bonding.
• C illustrates alternating positive and negative ions, typical of ionic crystals.
• D displays discrete molecules, characteristic of molecular solids.

Final answer: B