Electron Sea Model
The model of metallic bonding in which fixed cations are immersed in a mobile cloud of delocalised valence electrons.
Unit
Dimensionless
In depth
The freely moving electrons explain electrical and thermal conductivity, opacity and lustre, while the non-directional bonding explains malleability and ductility — layers slide without ever breaking the bonding. The model is qualitative; band theory provides the quantitative successor.
Examples in the real world
Copper drawn into fine wire without fracturing; aluminium conducting heat rapidly through a saucepan base.