Chemistry 2.2.4: Ionic Bonding

Question 1

what is ionic bonding?

Answer 1

the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions

Question 2

what are giant ionic lattices?

Answer 2

• oppositely charged ions attract to each other from all directions to form a giant ionic lattice.
• all ionic compounds exist as a giant ionic lattice in the solid state.

Question 3

what is the melting and boiling point of ionic compounds + why is it high or low?

Answer 3

• high melting and boiling point due to the strength of the electrostatic bonds

Question 4

explain the electrical conductivity of solid ionic lattices compared to a melted or dissolved ionic compound:

Answer 4

• in a solid ionic lattice, ions are in a fixed position and cannot more therefore cannot conduct electricity
• in a m/d ionic compound, the solid lattice breaks down and the ions are free to move and can conduct electricity

Question 5

what type of solvents do ionic lattices dissolve in?

Answer 5

polar solvents e.g. water

Question 6

why are ionic lattices soluble in water?

Answer 6

water has a polar bond which allows the + hydrogen atoms to attract to a - ion in the attic and the - oxygen atom to attract to a + ion, pulling them apart.