Question

ionic vs. covalent properties
now that you know the different properties of both ionic and covalent bonds, determine which properties and chemical formulas below are ionic (i) of covalent (c).

1. atoms share electrons to become stable
2. high melting and boiling points
3. conduct electricity when melted or in aqueous solution
4. usually occurs between non - metals
5. poor electrical conductors in all phases
6. many soluble in non - polar liquids but not in water
7. crystalline solids (made of ions)
8. usually occurs between metals and non - metals
9. low melting and boiling points
10. many soluble in water

Explanation:

1. Sharing electrons is a characteristic of covalent bonds.
2. High melting and boiling points are typical of ionic compounds due to strong ionic bonds.
3. Conducting electricity when melted or in aqueous solution is a property of ionic compounds as ions can move freely.
4. Covalent bonds usually occur between non - metals.
5. Poor electrical conductors in all phases are typical of covalent compounds.
6. Solubility in non - polar liquids and not in water is common for covalent compounds.
7. Crystalline solids made of ions are ionic compounds.
8. Bonds between metals and non - metals are usually ionic.
9. Low melting and boiling points are typical of covalent compounds.
10. Many ionic compounds are soluble in water.

Answer:

1. C
2. I
3. I
4. C
5. C
6. C
7. I
8. I
9. C
10. I