which property of a metal possessed by it melts when heat is applied?
Which property of a metal possessed by it melts when heat is applied?
The property of a metal that melts when heat is applied is its melting point. The melting point refers to the temperature at which a solid metal changes its phase from a solid to a liquid. When heat is applied to a metal, the increased kinetic energy of the metal atoms causes them to vibrate more rapidly. As the temperature rises, the atoms overcome the attractive forces holding them in a rigid lattice structure, and the metal turns into a liquid state.
It is important to note that different metals have different melting points. Some metals have low melting points, such as mercury with a melting point of -38.83°C, while others have high melting points, like tungsten with a melting point of 3,422°C. The melting point of a metal is determined by its atomic structure, specifically the strength of the metallic bonds between atoms. Metals with stronger metallic bonds tend to have higher melting points.
The melting point of a metal is a crucial physical property as it affects its various practical applications. For instance, metals with low melting points, such as tin and lead, are commonly used in soldering applications. On the other hand, metals with high melting points, such as titanium or steel, are vital in industries that require materials with excellent heat resistance, such as aerospace and automotive manufacturing.
In conclusion, the property of a metal that melts when heat is applied is its melting point, which is determined by the strength of the metallic bonds between its atoms.