Question

Metals are good conductors of heat because:
A: they do not have free electrons.
B: they gain electrons easily
C: their particles are very closely packed so the vibrations are passed on very quickly.
D: all of the above.

Answer 1

Since we are talking about conductivity, we have to analyse the factors that determine the conductivity of the electrons. We have to further check whether these factors are being mentioned in the options or not. If yes, we have to analyse it to reach our answer.

Complete step by step answer:
We know that metals are particularly good conductors of heat. This is because their particles are tightly packed together which causes the vibrations to get passed on very quickly. They also possess a large number of free electrons within it. These drift slowly through the structure, giving metals their strength and other properties. As the metal is heated, the free electrons closest to the heat source are heated. This makes them move faster and they travel through the metal, they begin to collide with both atoms and other electrons. This naturally causes faster vibration (or move through the metal faster in the case of collisions with other free electrons). This means that the heat is passed quickly through the metal.Thus we can conclude that metals are good conductors because their particles are very closely packed so the vibrations are passed on very quickly.

Hence, option C is the correct answer.

Note: Factors like metal content, voltage application, and dimensions also determine the electrical conductivity of metals. The students must check whether these factors are included in the options or not.