C3.4 Giant ionic structure

Question 1

Why does it take a lot of energy to break up a giant ionic lattice?

Answer 1

➢ Lots of strong ionic bonds to break
➢ To separate the ions you have to overcome all those electrostatic forces of attraction acting in all directions
➢ This means that ionic compounds have high melting points and boiling points

Question 2

Why can an ionic compound when in a liquid form conduct electricity?

Answer 2

➢ The ions become mobile so they can move around

➢ Therefore can carry an electrical charge around the liquid

Question 3

How can ionic compounds conduct electricity?

Answer 3

➢ When they dissolve in water

➢ When they melt and form a molten solution

Question 4

How do ionic compounds become a liquid?

Answer 4

➢ High temperatures provides enough energy to overcome the many strong attractive forces between ions
➢ Ions are free to move
➢ Conducts electricity