Write the characteristics of ionic compounds.
Question
Write the characteristics of ionic compounds.
Solution
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High Melting and Boiling Points: Ionic compounds have high melting and boiling points because the ionic bonds that hold the compounds together are very strong and require a lot of energy to break.
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Conductivity: When dissolved in water or melted, ionic compounds conduct electricity. The ions are free to move and carry electrical charge from one place to another.
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Solubility: Ionic compounds are generally soluble in water. The polar water molecules pull the positive and negative ions apart, making them dissolve.
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Formation of Crystals: Ionic compounds form crystal lattices due to the strong attraction between positive and negative ions. This gives them a regular, repeating pattern that results in a crystalline structure.
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Hardness: Ionic compounds are usually hard because of the strong attraction between the ions.
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Brittleness: Despite their hardness, ionic compounds are also brittle. When pressure is applied, the ions can shift and cause the compound to break.
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Non-directional Bonding: The bonding in ionic compounds is non-directional, meaning that the ions are equally attracted to all neighbouring opposite ions. This is different from covalent bonding, where electrons are shared in a specific direction between atoms.
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