Describe four properties of metals that make them suitable for use as electrical wiring and structural building materials.

Cambridge International IGCSE Chemistry (0620) — 9.1 Properties of metals · Describe · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Model answer (4 marks)

1. Good electrical conductivity – electrons move freely, allowing current to pass through.
2. Malleability/ductility – can be bent, hammered or drawn into wires without breaking.
3. High tensile strength – resists pulling forces, so can support heavy loads.
4. High melting point – remains solid under normal operating temperatures.

Examiner tips

  • Use the exact terms: conductivity, malleability, tensile strength, melting point.
  • Show the link between each property and the application (wiring or structure).

Common mistakes

  • Confusing malleability with ductility or vice‑versa.
  • Mentioning properties that are not relevant, e.g. colour or density.

Mark scheme (4 marks)

  1. Metals are good conductors of electricity (allow electrical current to pass through)
  2. Metals are malleable / ductile (can be bent, shaped, drawn into wires, or hammered into sheets without breaking)
  3. Metals have high tensile strength (can support heavy loads / resist being pulled apart)
  4. Metals have high melting points (do not melt under normal operating conditions / remain solid at high temperatures)

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