Covalent compounds

Question 1

What are the properties of simple covalent substances?

Answer 1

Low melting and boiling points

Cannot conduct electricity

Normally liquid or gas at room temp.

Question 2

What are the properties of giant covalent compounds?

Answer 2

> macromolecules

They have high melting and boiling points as each atom is strongly covalently bonded together

They do not conduct electricity( except graphite)

They have a giant lattice arrangement

Question 3

Why do simple covalent compounds have low melting and boiling points?

Answer 3

Because they have weak intermolecular forces that are easily overcome

Question 4

What are the properties/structure of diamond?

Answer 4

Each carbon atom forms four covalent bonds to form a rigid giant covalent structure

Hardest natural material

Useful for drills and jewellery

Question 5

What is the structure of graphite?

Answer 5

Each carbon atom only forms 3 covalent bonds

The layers of atoms are connected by weak intermolecular forces meaning that they can easily slide over one another and can be rubbed off into paper

They can conduct electricity as each carbon atom has a delocalised electron that can move freely