Giant Molecular Structure

Question 1

Substances with giant molecular structures have very high melting and boiling points.

Answer 1

A giant molecular structure consists of a large number of atoms that are held together by strong covalent bonds. To melt or boil the substance, these strong bonds must be broken. This requires a large amount of energy. Due to their high melting and boiling points, they are solid at room temp.

Question 2

Substances with giant molecular structure do not conduct electricity except graphite.

Answer 2

In giant molecular structures (except graphite), all the outer electrons of the atoms are used to form covalent bonds, thus there are no free electrons that move through the structure to conduct electricity.

Question 3

Substances with giant molecular structures are insoluble in both water and organic solvents.

Answer 3

This is because in giant molecular substances, all atoms are held together by strong covalent bonds. Any forces of attraction between the giant molecular structure and solvent molecules are not strong enough to break the strong covalent bonds.