Which property makes metals suitable for electrical wiring?

Prepare for the DIVE Chemistry Quarterly Exam 3 with practice questions including multiple choice and flashcards. Each question provides hints and explanations for thorough understanding. Get ready for your Chemistry exam!

The property that makes metals suitable for electrical wiring is electrical conductivity. Metals are characterized by their ability to allow electric current to flow through them efficiently due to the presence of free-moving electrons. This high electrical conductivity means that when a voltage is applied, electrons can easily move through the metal, enabling the effective transmission of electricity.

While high melting points can be advantageous in certain applications where conductivity needs to be maintained at high temperatures, it is not the primary reason these materials are chosen for wiring. Corrosion resistance is important in some settings to prevent degradation over time, but it is not a universal property of all metals used for electrical wiring. Opacity, which refers to the property of not allowing light to pass through, is irrelevant to the function and effectiveness of electrical wiring. Thus, electrical conductivity stands out as the key characteristic that makes metals well-suited for conducting electricity in wires.

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