What are three common properties of metals?

Metals are well-known for several key properties that make them distinct from other materials. The selected answer highlights crucial characteristics of metals.

Metals are strong, which means they can withstand significant stress without breaking. This strength is a result of the metallic bonds formed by delocalized electrons that contribute to the structural integrity of the metal.

Malleability is another important property, allowing metals to be hammered or rolled into thin sheets without breaking. This is attributable to the ability of metal atoms to slide past one another while maintaining the metallic bond's overall structure.

Furthermore, metals are excellent conductors of heat and electricity due to the presence of free electrons. These delocalized electrons allow for the easy flow of electrical current and transfer of thermal energy, which is why metals are often used in electrical wiring and cookware.

Lastly, metals generally have high melting and boiling points, which is reflective of the strong metallic bonds that require a significant amount of energy to break. This quality makes metals suitable for a wide range of high-temperature applications.

In summary, the properties mentioned in the correct answer encapsulate the essential features of metals, making them useful in various applications in everyday life and industrial contexts.