MediumChemistryHigh School (9–10)GeneralMetals and Non-metals › Ionic Compounds and Extraction of MetalsConceptual
A white solid is hard and brittle. It melts at 1100 K.
Contributed by StemPy LabTry it on paper first. A hint, the key idea and the worked solution are here when you need them.
A white solid is hard and brittle. It melts at . It dissolves in water, and the solution conducts electricity, but the solid does not. Is it ionic? Give the reasons.
Need a reminder? The key ideaShow
A metal atom loses its outer electrons to become a positive ion; a non-metal atom gains electrons to complete eight. The ions attract in an ionic bond, and the charges in the formula cancel. Ionic compounds are hard, brittle crystals with high melting points; they dissolve in water and conduct only when melted or dissolved.
The worked solution
Have you tried it?
Work it out on paper first. It is fine to get stuck or make a mistake: that is how we learn. When you are ready, go through the solution one step at a time, and check each step against your own.
Step 1. Hard, brittle and a high melting point: like an ionic crystal.
Step 2. It dissolves in water and the solution conducts: its ions are free there.
Step 3. The solid does not conduct: its ions are locked in place.
Answer: yes, it is very likely ionic.
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