Valent states of Cu, Ag, and Au atoms in molecules and solids are the same

Ratios between the distances, energies, and force constants of molecules (M₂) and corresponding solids (M) were shown to be approximately equal for elements of Groups 1a and 1b of the Periodic Table. It follows from elementary calculations that the different physical properties of these elements are determined by the electronic structure of isolated atoms, and there is no need to introduce the concepts and values of “metal” valences for Cu, Ag, and Au in solid state.