How does the structure of a metal allows it to carry an electrical current?

Answer 1

Yes they can.

In general, you would use copper wire for conducting electricity, since it gives quite good characteristics and is readily available. Other materials work, but not as well.

Answer 2

The atoms of metals are aligned in regular patterns in which their outermost orbitals overlap to form a network of pi bonds. Their valence electrons are free to move within this interconnected network of bonds. We call these electrons "delocalized" because they may be "spread out" over several adjacent atoms. These delocalized electrons facilitate the movement of charge because the electrons can easily move from one atom to the next, carrying electricity.

Answer 3

In metals electricity is carried only by electrons. The positive ions are just vibrating. As electric current flows through the metals, then the oscillatory energy increases and this is sensed as heat produced in the wire.

But in case of liquids, both charges are able to migrate. The positive and negative ions are the major part of current flown through the liquids.

Answer 4

Metals have a crystalline structure with closely packed atoms, which allows electrons to move freely through the material. This movement of electrons enables metals to carry electrical current efficiently.

Answer 5

The movement of electrons, which carry a charge

Answer 6

copper and aluminium are the most common, but aluminium isn't as good as copper because it puts to much resistance on the electricity causing it to heat up.