EL: Ionic Bonding and Structure

Question 1

Define what an ionic compound is.

Answer 1

Oppositely charged ions held together by electrostatic forces of attraction.

Question 2

What must happen to a sodium atom for it to gain a full outer shell when reacting with chlorine?

Answer 2

-The Na atom donates 1 e- to the chlorine atom, so both atoms fulfill the octet rule and have full outer shells.
-They then form oppositely charged ions and attract each other.

Question 3

What structure do ionic compounds such as NaCl have?

Answer 3

Giant Ionic Lattice

Question 4

Describe the 3 main points of a giant ionic lattice.

Answer 4

-Regular structure
-Cubic Shape
-Giant repeating pattern

Question 5

State the 3 properties of ionic compounds.

Answer 5

-Soluble in water
-Conduct electricity
-Have High Melting Points

Question 6

Explain why ionic compounds are soluble in water.

Answer 6

Most ionic compounds are soluble due to polar water molecules which attract to the charged ions and break up the structure.

Question 7

Explain why and when ionic compounds conduct electricity.

Answer 7

Ionic compounds conduct electricity when molten or dissolved in solution, as the ions are free to move around.

Question 8

Explain why ionic compounds have high melting points.

Answer 8

Ionic compounds have a high melting point as there are many strong electrostatic forces of attraction between oppositely charged ions; lots of energy is needed to overcome these electrostatic forces.