Ionic solids Flashcards
Are ionic solids typically brittle?
Yes, ionic solids are often brittle due to the regular arrangement of ions in their crystal lattice.
Are ionic solids malleable or ductile?
No, ionic solids are not malleable or ductile because deformation would require breaking the ionic bonds in the crystal lattice.
Do ionic solids have high or low melting points?
Ionic solids generally have high melting points because breaking the electrostatic forces between ions requires a significant amount of energy.
Are ionic solids soluble in water?
Yes, ionic solids are often soluble in water. The water molecules surround and separate the individual ions, facilitating dissolution.
How does the regular arrangement of ions in the crystal lattice contribute to the brittleness of ionic solids?
The regular arrangement of ions in the crystal lattice causes like-charged ions to come into close proximity when stress is applied, leading to repulsion and breakage, making ionic solids brittle.
What type of forces hold the ions together in an ionic solid?
Electrostatic forces, specifically ionic bonds, hold the positively charged cations and negatively charged anions together in the crystal lattice of an ionic solid.
Why are ionic solids often soluble in water?
Ionic solids are often soluble in water because water molecules surround and separate individual ions, breaking the electrostatic forces in the crystal lattice and facilitating dissolution.
