Covalent Structures Flashcards
What can all atoms that share electrons do?
Form macromolecules (giant structures)
What do atoms in a giant covalent structure have?
High melting points
Why do substances in giant covalent structures have high melting points?
As there are strong covalent bonds that require a lot of energy to break
Which 3 macromolecules do you need to know?
Diamond (form of carbon)
Graphite (form of carbon)
Silicon Dioxide (silica)
In diamond, how many bonds does a carbon atom form?
4
Why is diamond very hard?
As it is made of a giant covalent structure of carbon atoms
In graphite, how many bonds does a carbon atom form?
3, forming layers
Why is graphite soft and slippery?
As there are weak intermolecular forces between layers, so they can SLIDE OVER EACHOTHER
Why can graphite conduct electricity and heat?
As it has a delocalised electron, that can move through the layers
Why is graphite similar to metals?
It has delocalised electrons
What can carbon also form?
Fullerenes with different numbers of carbon atoms
What can fullerenes be used in?
Lubricants
Catalysts
Drug delivery into the body
Nanotubes for reinforcing materials (tennis rackets)
What is the general structure of fullerenes based on?
Hexagonal rings of carbon
