Free electrons in metals

In summary, the presence of free electrons in metals allows for the easy conduction of heat and electricity due to their low mass and ability to move easily. This also contributes to the shiny surfaces and reflective properties of metals. The term "dull" is not a technical term in physics and is often used informally to describe an object that does not allow light to pass through. The abundance of free electrons in metals also plays a role in their reflective properties.
  • #1
mech-eng
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I would like to ask how free electrons make metals conduct heat and electricity? Metals seem dull, their surfaces are shiny and reflect the light? So are these properties also related to free electrons?

I don't know true word for dull but it might mean the light cannot go through a dull object.

Thank you.
 
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  • #2
afaik: "dull" is not a technical term in physics ... used informally, it usually means "uninterestiing" or, in this context, "not shiny".
Objects that block light at some wavelengths are "opaque" to those wavelengths.

"free electrons" in a metal are those that are shared by all the atoms in the crystal ... electrons have very low mass, so they are easily made to move about, and respond easily to each other's electric fields... this makes the motion disordered or random (seen what happens if you get multiball when you already have multiball in a pinball game? Random motion is called "heat". You should be able to work out the rest.

Shinyness - being good reflectors - is a characteristic of metals that is closely related to the abundance of free electrons: yes.
Pretty much all the macroscopic surface properties of any solid is due to the electrons closest to the surface.
 

What are free electrons in metals?

Free electrons in metals refer to the loosely bound, or delocalized, electrons that are found in the outer energy levels of metal atoms. These electrons are not tightly bound to any specific atom and are able to move freely throughout the metal structure.

How do free electrons contribute to the properties of metals?

Free electrons are responsible for many of the unique properties of metals, such as high electrical and thermal conductivity, malleability, and ductility. They also play a role in the shiny, reflective appearance of metals.

What is the relationship between free electrons and conductivity?

The presence of free electrons in metals allows for easy movement of electric charge, resulting in high electrical conductivity. When an electric field is applied, the free electrons can move through the metal and carry the electric current.

What happens to free electrons at low temperatures?

At low temperatures, the movement of free electrons slows down, leading to a decrease in electrical conductivity. This is why metals are often used as conductors in electrical circuits, as their conductivity can be easily controlled by adjusting the temperature.

Can free electrons be removed from metals?

Yes, it is possible to remove free electrons from metals through processes such as ionization or chemical reactions. This results in the formation of positively charged ions, which can then bond with other atoms or molecules.

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