The metallic luster exhibited by sodium is explained by

Options

A. Diffusion of sodium ions
B. Oscillation of loose electrons
C. Excitation of free protons
D. Existence of body centred cubic lattice

Answer

B

Explanation

Light is absorbed by the electrons, but rather than the energy being converted to emission of a different wavelength, the energy is emitted at the same wavelength. This is because, electrons exist in a bond of continuous energy levels, rather than a few separate energy levels. So the metallic lustre of sodium is due to the absorption and emission of light without changing the wavelength of the photon.