Topic 3 - 3.2 - Ionic Compounds

Question 1

What is an Ionic Compound?

Answer 1

A substance formed when ions bond together through electrostatic forces called ionic bonds

Question 2

Do compounds have charges?

Answer 2

No, they are neutral

Question 3

What are the properties of Ionic Compounds?

Answer 3

• They are made up of one metal and one non-metal
• They have high melting and boiling points
• They can conduct electricity but ONLY when they have been melted or dissolved in water
• They have high strength bonds
• They are soluble

Question 4

Explain why Ionic Compounds only conduct electricity when in solution or molten form but not in solid form

Answer 4

In solids, everything is fixed so the ions (/electrons) aren’t able to move and conduct electricity. But when they are in solution or melted form, the ions are able to move around freely, therefore being able to conduct electricity.

Question 5

Explain why Ionic Compounds have high melting and boiling points

Answer 5

The ionic bonds that hold them together are very strong, meaning that it would require a lot of energy to break each individual bond