Properties of Ionic Compounds Flashcards
Why do ionic compounds have high melting points
Ionic compounds have high melting points because of the strong attractive forces between the large numbers of positive and negative ions acting in all directions need a lot of energy to overcome the forces to melt the solid.
Why are ionic crystals brittle
Crystals split apart when hit in the same direction as the layers of ions. When the layers move slightly, similarly charged ions come close to each other and the large repulsive forces cause the crystal to split.
Why are ionic crystals soluble in water
When added to water the water molecules form weak bonds with the ions on the surface of the crystal. The forces between the ions within the crystals are weakened and the ions eventually become surrounded by water molecules. The total forces of attraction between the water molecules and the ions are greater than the forces of attraction between the positive and negative ions, The crystal dissolves
Why do ionic compounds do not disolve in non-polar organic solvents
They do not dissolve in non-polar solvents because either bonds are not formed between the organic solvent and the ions or the bonds are too weak.
Why do ionic compounds not conduct electricity when solid
Ionic compounds do not conduct electricity when solid because the ions are not free to move. For a substance to conduct electricity there must be movement of charged particles.
Why do ionic compounds conduct electricity when molten or dissolved in water
Ionic compounds conduct electricity when molten or dissolved in water because the ions are free to move. Thus, being able to carry electrically charged particles
