Structure and Bonding

Question 1

Why are the noble gases inert?

Answer 1

They have stable electron structures

Question 2

What type of structure does sodium chloride have?

Answer 2

A giant cubic lattice

Question 3

Describe the structure of ionic compounds and what causes this

Answer 3

• Oppositely charged ions are held together in giant structures
• These structures are very regular
• This is due to the strong electrostatic forces in all directions
• Each ion is surrounded by ions of an opposite charge. This holds it firmly in place

Question 4

Which electrons should you show on a dot and cross diagram?

Answer 4

Only those in the outer shell

Question 5

Complete the sentence:

All ionic structures are…

Answer 5

…giant

Question 6

How are metallic bonds formed?

Answer 6

• When metal atoms pack together, the electrons in the outer shells delocalise and can move freely between atms
• This produces a lattice of positive ions in a ‘sea’ of moving electrons
• The delocalised electrons strongly attract the positive ions and hold the giant structure together through electrostatic forces