Ionic Substances

What is the formation of an ionic substance?

Positively charged cations and negatively charged anions formed in a 3D lattice structure.

What are the types of bonds and forces found in ionic substances?

Ionic bonds and electrostatic forces.

What are the key properties of Ionic substances?

High melting and boiling points, Electrical conductivity, Brittleness

In which state are ionic substances able to conduct?

In the molten state or when dissolved in water, ionic substances can conduct electricity due to the mobility of ions.

Why do Ionic substances have high melting and boiling points?

Strong electrostatic forces between oppositely charged ions in the lattice need a lot of energy to overcome, so a very high temperature is required to melt or boil.

Why are ionic substances brittle?

When a force is applied, layers of ions shift so that like-charged ions are brought next to each other, causing strong repulsion that pushes the layers apart and makes the crystal shatter.