Topic 1 Ions Flashcards
What is an ion?
an atom that has lost or gained electrons
What happens if an ion gains an electron
The ion becomes negative
What happens if an ion looses an electron
It becomes a positive ion
What happens to the electrons in metals and non metals?
Metals loose electrons
Non metals gain electrons
What are ionic bonds
The strong electrostatic attractions between positive and negative ions
what are the 3 properties of ionic compounds
1) from crystals with high melting points
2) dissolve in water to give solutions
3) conduct electricity when dissolved or molten
why do ionic compounds have high melting points?
High charges on the ion result in stronger ionic bonds and more heat needed to overcome them
Why do ionic compounds dissolve in water?
water is able to get into the ionic lattice and break it up so that the ionic compound dissolves
Why do ionic compounds only conduct electricity when molten or dissolved?
as ionic compounds are made up of charged ions they can only conduct electricity when the ions can move
