Giant Ionic Structures or Lattices

Ionic compounds form large 3D structures called giant ionic lattices, not individual molecules. Sodium chloride is an example where sodium and chloride ions are arranged in a repeating 3D pattern. The strong electrostatic attractions between ions give ionic compounds high melting points and brittleness. When force is applied, the lattice structure is disrupted, causing like charges to repel and the structure to break. This explains why ionic compounds are brittle. Overall, ionic compounds are characterized by their giant ionic lattice structure and strong electrostatic attractions.

What is the primary structural form in which ionic compounds like sodium chloride exist?

• Individual molecules

• Giant ionic lattices

• Covalent networks

• Metallic bonds

In a giant ionic lattice, how are sodium and chloride ions arranged?

• In a regular, repeating 3D pattern

• In pairs of sodium and chloride

• Randomly scattered

• In a linear chain

What holds the ions in place within a giant ionic lattice?

• Electrostatic attractions

• Gravitational forces

• Nuclear forces

• Magnetic forces

Why do ionic compounds have high melting points?

• Due to their metallic nature

• Because of strong electrostatic attractions

• Because they are lightweight

• Due to weak intermolecular forces

What happens to the ionic lattice structure when a force is applied?

• It forms new bonds

• It disrupts, causing like charges to repel

• It melts

• It becomes more stable