Covalent Bonds - Simple Molecule Properties

Question 1

What are the atoms in simple molecular structures held together by?

Answer 1

The atoms within the molecules in simple molecular structures are held together by very strong covalent bonds. By contrast, the forces of attraction between these molecules are very weak.

Question 2

What would an example of a simple molecular substance?

Answer 2

Substances containing covalent bonds usually have simple molecular structures like

• Chlorine
• Oxygen

Question 3

What is the reason behind a simple molecular structure having very low boiling and melting points?

Answer 3

To melt or boil a simple molecular compound, you only need to break these feeble intermolecular forces and not the covalent bonds. So the melting and boiling points are very low, because the molecules are very low, because the molecules are easily parted from each other .

Question 4

What 2 states of matter are most molecular substances at room temperature?

Answer 4

Most molecular substances are gases or liquids at room temperature.

Question 5

As molecules get bigger does the strength of the intermolcular force decrease?

Answer 5

No, as the molecules get bigger, the strength of the intermolecular forces increase, so more energy is needed to break them, and the melting and boiling points increase.