Crystal lattices of metals
Metals in a solid state have a crystalline structure: the atoms are arranged in an orderly manner and form crystal lattices. It is the crystalline structure that explains a number of characteristic properties of metals:
1) high thermal and electrical conductivity;
2) thermionic emission (the ability to emit electrons when heated);
3) good reflectivity (metallic luster);
4) increased ability to plastic deformation;
5) positive temperature coefficient of electrical resistance.