Metals are thought to consist of positive ions in a sea of delocalised electrons. For the metals in Period 3, melting points rise as atomic number rises. Which of these statements can be used to account for this pattern from sodium to aluminium? 1. The metal ion has a higher charge. 2. Each metal ion is associated with a greater number of delocalised electrons. 3. The radius of the metal ion decreases.
- A1, 2 and 3 are correct
- B1 and 2 only are correct
- C2 and 3 only are correct
- D1 only is correct