Metals contain free electrons. Various theoretical and practical implications of this characteristic feature of the metallic state are discussed. Recent views which emphasize ease of ionization, unsaturated metallic bonds, and screening of electrical charges by free electrons, as the basis for distinguishing between metals, semi-conductors, and insulators, are described. The importance of the free electron bond for the crystal structures, cohesive properties, and alloy behaviour of metals is emphasized, and the principles underlying the engineering strength properties of matter and the design of creep-resistant alloys are briefly discussed in terms of free electrons and dislocations in solids.
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