no metals are elements, period.
Crystals are ionic molicules formed when a metal shares an electron with a non metal such as cloride. Further more they can be desolved in a solution where the ionic bonds break and they float as electrolites. This alowes an electric current to flow through as it does through sea water.
HOWEVER METALS CANT GROW and its rediculas to think that the total volume of ANY element can be changed by water
OMG! Are you an expert in EVERYTHING? :wallbang:
Most dense metal are that way because of the tightly packed crystals. Its also why metal bends instead of shattering. The crystal slide against eachother.