Few simple questions about atomic structure and properties

[mjolnir80]

Homework Statement

a)what property of graphite is the result of the presence of delocalized electrons?
b)what is the reason for the generally low melting point of group I A metals as compared with the high melting points of metals in the center of the transition series?

The Attempt at a Solution

a) is it the layers?
b)i thinks it the higher charge on the transition metals

thanks in advance

 

[Kushal]

well, in graphite each carbon atom is bonded to three other carbon atoms forming layers of hexagonal rings. one valence electron is left out, which acts as a charge carrier in the lattice.

in group 1 there is loosing packing and only 1 electron delocalised per atom. hence weak metallic bond. in transation metals d orbital electrons get delocalised as well, hence a stronger metallic bond.