1.34 Explain the properties of typical covalent, simple molecular compounds limited to:

Question 1

What causes poor conduction of electricity in covalent compounds?

Answer 1

Poor conduction of electricity in covalent compounds is due to the absence of free-moving charged particles or electrons that are typically necessary for electrical conductivity.

Question 2

What do low boiling points indicate in simple molecular compounds?

Answer 2

Low boiling points indicate that the energy required to overcome intermolecular forces and convert a liquid to gas is relatively low, characteristic of simple molecular compounds.

Question 3

Why do simple molecular compounds have low melting points?

Answer 3

Low melting points in simple molecular compounds arise because only weak intermolecular forces, rather than strong covalent bonds, need to be overcome to transition from solid to liquid.

Question 4

What are intermolecular forces?

Answer 4

Intermolecular forces are the forces of attraction or repulsion between neighboring molecules, which are generally weaker than covalent bonds and determine the physical properties of molecular compounds.

Question 5

What are simple molecular compounds?

Answer 5

Simple molecular compounds consist of small groups of atoms bonded covalently, typically exhibiting low melting and boiling points due to weak intermolecular forces.

Question 6

How are covalent compounds formed?

Answer 6

Covalent compounds are formed when two or more nonmetals share electrons, resulting in the formation of molecules held together by covalent bonds.