Chemistry: Structure and Properties of Materials

Flashcards about structure and properties of materials based on the lecture notes.

Chemical Element

Species of atoms with the same number of protons in the atomic nucleus.

Chemical Bond

An electrostatic attraction between particles.

Ionic Bonds

Electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions.

Covalent Bonds

Electrostatic attraction between nuclei and shared electrons.

Metallic Bonds

Electrostatic attraction between cations and a sea of delocalized electrons.

Volatility of Ionic Compounds

Ionic compounds have high melting and boiling points and are non-volatile, existing as solids at room temperature.

Hardness of Ionic Compounds

Ionic compounds are hard but brittle due to strong electrostatic forces, but they shatter when ions of the same charge repel.

Solubility of Ionic Compounds

Ionic compounds are usually soluble in water but insoluble in organic solvents.

Electrical Conductivity of Ionic Compounds

Ionic compounds can conduct electricity when melted or dissolved in water, but not in solid state.

Covalent Substances State at Room Temperature

Usually exists as liquid or gaseous state at room temperature.

Melting and Boiling Point of Covalent Substances

Low melting & boiling point.

Solubility of Covalent Substances

Most are soluble in organic solvents but insoluble/have low solubility in water.

Electrical Conductivity of Covalent Substances

Covalent molecules do not conduct electricity in any states.

Alloy

A mixture of a metal with one or more other elements.

Malleability

The ability to be hammered into different shapes.

Ductility

The ability to be drawn into wires without breaking.

Electrical Conductivity of metals

Metals conduct electricity because the valence electrons are delocalised within the metal lattice and can carry electrical charges to conduct electricity

Heat Conductivity of metals

The delocalised electrons allow efficient transfer of thermal energy throughout the giant metallic lattice

Brass

An alloy composed of copper and zinc, known for corrosion resistance.

Stainless Steel

An alloy of iron, chromium, nickel, and carbon, prized for its resistance to corrosion.

Solder

An alloy of tin and lead, notable for its low melting point.