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Chapter 11: Problem 45

Which of the following factors are especially important in determining whether a substance has metallic properties: (a) atomic number; (b) atomic mass; (c) number of valence electrons; (d) number of vacant atomic orbitals; (e) total number of electronic shells in the atom? Explain.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Among the given factors, the number of valence electrons and the total number of electronic shells have considerable importance in determining whether a substance has metallic properties.

Step by step solution

01

Examine the Impact of Atomic Number

Atomic number refers to the number of protons in an atom. It influences an element’s position on the periodic table but does not directly affect the metallic properties. Therefore, atomic number is not particularly important in determining whether a substance has metallic properties.
02

Consider the Role of Atomic Mass

Atomic mass deals with the sum of protons and neutrons in an atom. While it determines the identity of an isotope, it also has no direct relationship with the metallic properties of a substance. Hence, atomic mass is also not a crucial factor in determining metallic properties.
03

Evaluate the Effect of Valence Electrons

Valence electrons are the outermost electrons of an atom and play a key role in bonding. Metals typically have one to three valence electrons that can be easily lost to create positive ions. These loosely held valence electrons contribute to the good conductivity of metals. Thus, the number of valence electrons is a crucial factor in determining if a substance has metallic properties.
04

Assess the Impact of Vacant Atomic Orbitals

The number of vacant atomic orbitals isn't directly related to the metallic nature of an element. So, it does not play an important role in determining metallic properties.
05

Analyze the Influence of Number of Electronic Shells

The total number of electronic (energy) shells can indirectly influence metallic properties. Elements with more energy levels generally tend to be more metallic since they have more loosely bound valence electrons that participate in metallic bonding. So, the total number of electronic shells in an atom has some influence on a substance's metallic properties.

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