# Explain why metals generally have high electrical conductivity and why this conductivity decreases as temperature increases.

> IB DP Chemistry Standard Level (2023 syllabus) — S2.3 The metallic model · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Metals contain a lattice of positive ions (cations) surrounded by delocalised electrons.
2. These delocalised electrons can move freely through the lattice and carry charge, giving rise to electrical conductivity.
3. As temperature increases, the positive ions vibrate with greater amplitude/more vigorously.
4. Increased ionic vibration causes more frequent collisions/greater resistance to the flow of delocalised electrons, reducing conductivity.

## Key terms

- [electrical conductivity](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/electrical-conductivity)

## Related

- [Revision notes for IB DP Chemistry Standard Level (2023 syllabus)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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