Humber Admissions Practice Test

Which term describes a property that metals generally possess?

1. Electrical insulation

2. Crystalline structure

3. Poor malleability

4. High electrical resistance

The correct answer is: Crystalline structure

Metals generally possess a crystalline structure, which is a characteristic that contributes to their overall properties. In a crystalline structure, the atoms in the metal are arranged in a highly ordered and repeating pattern, forming a lattice that can enhance the material's strength and conductivity. This arrangement allows for efficient packing of atoms, contributing to properties such as ductility and malleability, which are essentially the ability of metals to deform under stress. The orderly arrangement also helps in the conduction of electricity and heat. The other options do not accurately describe a common property of metals. While some non-metals and materials may exhibit electrical insulation, metals are usually good conductors of electricity. Poor malleability is not characteristic of metals; in fact, most metals are known for their ability to be shaped and formed without breaking. High electrical resistance is also not a typical property, as most metals have low resistance, allowing them to conduct electricity effectively. Thus, the characteristic of a crystalline structure is what makes this option the most accurate representation of a property that metals generally possess.