19
QuizMultiple Choice

Chemical Bonding — Test

Question 19 • Chemistry

Which reason best explains why metals are shiny?

Answer
A
because their valence electrons reflect light
B
because their valence electrons absorb light
C
because their valence electrons oscillate between bands
D
because their valence electrons move to higher energy levels

Explanation

Metals have mobile valence electrons that respond to incoming light and re-emit much of it, producing strong reflection from the surface. This reflected light is what makes metals look shiny. Absorbing light would make the material appear darker rather than shiny.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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