Question

select the correct answer. which statement best describes the properties of covalent compounds? a. they are always solid at room temperature, are brittle, and have a high melting point. b. they may be gases, liquids, or solids at room temperature, and have a low melting and boiling point. c. they are always composed of an equal proportion of cations to anions. d. they are always liquid at room temperature, and have a high melting and boiling point. e. they are good conductors of heat and electricity, and are ductile and malleable.

Explanation:

Covalent compounds have weak intermolecular forces. This allows them to exist as gases, liquids, or solids at room - temperature and gives them low melting and boiling points. Option A is incorrect as they aren't always solid and don't have high melting points. Option C is wrong because covalent compounds don't consist of cations and anions. Option D is incorrect as they aren't always liquid and don't have high melting/boiling points. Option E is wrong since covalent compounds are poor conductors and not ductile or malleable.

Answer:

B. They may be gases, liquids, or solids at room temperature, and have a low melting and boiling point.