What describes the arrangement of atoms in metals that results in a crystalline structure?

The arrangement of atoms in metals that leads to a crystalline structure is characterized by a repeated arrangement of atoms. In a crystalline structure, atoms are organized in a highly ordered and repeating pattern, which creates a distinct geometric shape. This ordered arrangement contributes to the unique properties of metals, such as strength, conductivity, and malleability.

In contrast, an amorphous structure lacks long-range order and does not possess a crystalline pattern, thus failing to describe the typical atomic arrangement in metals. A crystalline lattice is a concept related to the geometric arrangement of atoms but does not explicitly convey the repeating nature required to describe how metals are structured. Lastly, a random arrangement does not apply to metals, as it implies a lack of order that is not characteristic of the crystalline structure found in metallic elements.

Therefore, the notion of a repeated arrangement of atoms accurately captures the essential feature of the crystalline structures that metals exhibit.