Question

What are the physical properties of an ionic compounds? [5 MARKS]

Answer 1

Each point: 1 Mark

Some of the physical properties of an ionic compounds are:

• Physical state: Ionic compounds are solids and relatively hard because of the strong force of attraction between the positive and negative ions. This attraction of force is also known as strong electrostatic force of attraction. These compounds are generally brittle and break into pieces when pressure is applied.
• Solubility: Electrovalent compounds are generally soluble in water and insoluble in solvents such as kerosene, petrol, etc.
• Melting: Ionic compounds have high melting, due to the strong electrostatic force of attraction between the oppositely charged ions. Therefore, large amount of energy is needed to break these bonds.
• Boiling points: Ionic compounds have high boiling points, due to the strong electrostatic force of attraction between the oppositely charged ions. Therefore, large amount of energy is needed to break these bonds.
• Conduction of electricity: Ionic compounds in the solid state do not conduct electricity because movement of ions in the solid is not possible due to their rigid structure. But ionic compounds conduct electricity in molten state. In the molten state, the ions become free and therefore, they conduct electricity due to mobility of ions.