2.3.1

Chemical Properties of Ionic Compounds

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Properties of Ionic Compounds

The lattice structure of ionic compounds gives them certain properties.

Illustrative background for High melting and boiling pointsIllustrative background for High melting and boiling points ?? "content

High melting and boiling points

  • To break ionic bonds, significant energy is needed to overcome the electrostatic forces between the ions and electrons in the lattice.
  • Because of this, the melting and boiling points of ionic compounds is high.
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Don't conduct electricity if solid

  • When solid, the ions in the lattice are fixed in place.
  • This means that charges cannot flow, so electricity cannot be conducted.
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Conduct electricity if liquid or in solution

  • When molten, or dissolved in water, the ions in the lattice can move freely.
  • Because of this, charge can flow and electricity can be conducted.

Jump to other topics

1Atomic Structure

2Chemical Bonding

3Quantitative Chemistry

4Chemical Changes

5Energy Changes

6The Rate & Extent of Chemical Change

7Organic Chemistry

8Chemical Analysis

9Chemistry of the Atmosphere

10Using Resources

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