How to teach metallic bonding | Feature | RSC Education - Free Printable

- The image illustrates the atomic structure of a pure metal, showing layers of atoms arranged in a regular, repeating pattern.
- An arrow points to one layer of atoms, which is depicted as sliding over the layer beneath it.
- This sliding motion represents the process of plastic deformation, or permanent shaping, that occurs in metals when they are subjected to stress.
- The ability of these atomic layers to slide past one another without breaking the metallic bonds is what gives metals their characteristic malleability and ductility.