Metals

Layers of atoms slide over each other when metals are bent or stretched

Metals are malleable - they can be bent and shaped. This is because they consist of layers of atoms. These layers can slide over one another when the metal is bent, hammered or pressed.

Metals - Higher tier

Metals form giant structures in which electrons in the outer shells of the metal atoms are free to move. The metallic bond is the force of attraction between these free electrons and metal ions. Metallic bonds are strong, so metals can maintain a regular structure and usually have high melting and boiling points.

Metals are good conductors of electricity and heat. This is because the free electrons can move throughout the metal.