Chapter 3.4 Giant ionic structures

Question 1

Why do ionic compounds conduct electricity only when molten or dissolved?

Answer 1

This is because their ions can then become mobile and can carry charge through a liquid.

Question 2

Name three properties of an ionic solid.

Answer 2

Ions are fixed in position in a giant lattice. They vibrate but cannot move around.
it does not conduct electricity.

Question 3

Name three properties of a molten compound.

Answer 3

High temperature provides enough energy to overcome the many strong attractive forces between ions.
Ions are free to move around within the molten compound.
It does conduct electricity.

Question 4

Name three properties of an ionic compound in solution.

Answer 4

Water molecules separate ions from the lattice. Ions are free to move around within the solution.
It does conduct electricity.