# Explain why metals have high melting points and can conduct electricity.

> AQA GCSE Chemistry (8462) — 4.2.2 How bonding and structure are related to the properties of substances · Explain · 4 marks

> Metals such as copper are used in electrical wiring and in high-temperature industrial equipment.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Metals contain delocalised electrons (that are free to move through the structure)
2. The delocalised electrons can carry electrical charge / current through the metal
3. There are strong metallic bonds between the positive ions and the delocalised electrons
4. A large amount of energy is needed to break these strong bonds, so the melting point is high

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA GCSE Chemistry (8462)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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