In the diagrams presented in the other three sections, the points show where atoms would lie if there were no motion due to heat; that is, if the metal's temperature were at absolute zero (-273°C).

Thinking about cleaning your metal roof yourself? Before you step onto the ladder for a big DIY chore, consider these tips.

When a liquid metal cools and turns into a solid, its atoms come together to form crystals. The structure of these crystals is not perfect. Sometimes an extra layer of atoms squeezes between other ...

Microstructural analysis of this forged iron structure revealed an extraordinary convergence of properties that resulted in ...

The metal ions form nodes that bind the arms of the linkers together to form a repeating, cage-like structure. Due to this hollow structure, MOFs have an extraordinarily large internal surface area.

Most metals are malleable – they can be bent and shaped without breaking. This is because they consist of layers of ions that can slide over one another when the metal is bent, hammered or pressed.

Metals have advantages over many other substances for they are hard but can be reshaped. Their crystalline structure allows them to be 'worked' to make them stronger. Mark Miodownik describes the ...