Ionic Structures Flashcards

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What is an ionic compound?

An ionic compound is a substance made of positive and negative ions.

How are the ions arranged in a giant ionic structure?

The ions are in a giant lattice, a regular, repeating 3D pattern.

What holds the ions together in an ionic lattice?

Strong electrostatic forces of attraction between opposite charges hold them together.

Why do ionic compounds have high melting points?

Their strong forces between ions need a lot of energy to break.

Why are most ionic compounds solid at room temperature?

Their strong ionic bonds keep the ions fixed in place as a solid.

Why do solid ionic compounds not conduct electricity?

In a solid, the ions cannot move, so charge cannot flow.

Why can molten ionic compounds conduct electricity?

When molten, the ions are free to move and carry charge.

Why can many ionic compounds conduct electricity when dissolved in water?

In solution, the ions are separate and can move to carry charge.

Why are many ionic compounds brittle?

If layers shift, like charges line up, repel, and the crystal cracks.

Give one example of an ionic compound and name its ions.

Sodium chloride is ionic. It has sodium ions (Na⁺) and chloride ions (Cl⁻).