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Structures - (CCEA)Classifying structures

Ionic bonding holds ions together in a giant lattice. Covalent bonds create simple molecules or giant covalent structures. Different types of bonding give a substance different properties.

Part of Chemistry (Single Science)Structures, trends, chemical reactions, quantitative chemistry and analysis

Classifying structures

Chemistry exam questions often provide data about a range of substances and ask students to classify them as an ionic lattice, molecular covalent, giant covalent or metallic.

StructureMelting pointSolubility in waterElectrical conductivity
giant ionic latticehighsolubleconductive when molten or dissolved
molecular covalentlowinsolublenot conductive
metallic latticeusually highinsolubleconductive
giant covalent (diamond)highinsolublenot conductive
giant covalent (graphite and graphene)highinsolubleconductive
Structuregiant ionic lattice
Melting pointhigh
Solubility in watersoluble
Electrical conductivityconductive when molten or dissolved
Structuremolecular covalent
Melting pointlow
Solubility in waterinsoluble
Electrical conductivitynot conductive
Structuremetallic lattice
Melting pointusually high
Solubility in waterinsoluble
Electrical conductivityconductive
Structuregiant covalent (diamond)
Melting pointhigh
Solubility in waterinsoluble
Electrical conductivitynot conductive
Structuregiant covalent (graphite and graphene)
Melting pointhigh
Solubility in waterinsoluble
Electrical conductivityconductive
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