Question

Iodine $\left(I_2\right)$ crystals can be categorized into:

• A. Metallic solid
• B. Ionic solid
• C. Molecular solid
• D. Covalent solid

Answer 1

The correct option is C Molecular solid

Based on the nature of intermolecular forces or bonds that hold the constituent particles together, the crystalline solids are classified into:

1. Ionic solids
2. Covalent solids
3. Metallic solids
4. Molecular solids

In ionic solids, there will be strong electrostatic force between cations and anions.
Eg. $NaCl,KCl,etc.$

In covelent solids, the atoms or chemical subunits are bonded by conventional covalent bonds in a continuous network.
Eg. Diamond, graphite etc.

In metallic solids, positive ions are surrounded by and held together by a sea of free electrons.
Eg. All metals like $Ag,Fe,etc.$

In molecular solids, molecules are the constituent particle. They are held together by intermolecular forces. The forces between these molecules (van der Waals forces) are relatively weak. These have low melting points. Examples include:
$I_2\left(s\right),HCl\left(s\right),H_{3}B{O}_3\left(s\right),etc.$

Molecular solids can be further divided into:

1. Non-polar molecular solids
2. Polar molecular solids
3. Hydrogen bonded molecular solids