Why is indium malleable?

Indium is malleable primarily due to its metallic bonding structure, which allows layers of atoms to slide over each other easily without breaking the bonds. This property is a result of its relatively low atomic number and the presence of a single valence electron, which contributes to weaker interatomic forces compared to other metals. Additionally, indium's crystal structure is face-centered cubic, which further enhances its ability to deform under stress.