What type of bond is formed by the attraction between metal atoms and a 'sea of electrons'?

The correct answer, metallic bonding, refers to the unique interaction that occurs in metals where metal atoms release some of their electrons to form a 'sea of electrons' that is free to move around. This sea of electrons allows for the conduction of electricity and heat, as the delocalized electrons can move effortlessly throughout the structure.

In metallic bonding, the metal atoms are held together in a lattice structure by the positive charge of the metal cations, which are attracted to the negatively charged, delocalized electrons. This creates a strong bond that is responsible for many properties associated with metals, including malleability, ductility, and electrical conductivity.

Thus, metallic bonding is characterized not just by the attraction between individual metal atoms, but by the collective interaction with the sea of electrons that grants metals their distinct physical properties.