Chemistry

Name:Dana Samuels
Grade 11EW
Topic Ionic and Molecular Solids
Assignment

1. Define the term allotrope. Allotropes are 2 or more forms of the same element
having the same physical state,but different structures.

2. Explain why diamond and graphite have the same chemical properties but different
physical properties. In diamond one carbon atom is bonded with four other carbon
atoms with strong covalent bond so it is hard while in the case of graphite each
carbon forms two strong bonds with other two carbon atoms and one weak bond is
formed with third carbon atom and forms hexagonal rings which slide over each other
so it is soft.

3. By referring to the structures in diamond and graphite, explain why:

a) Diamond has a very high melting point. Diamond has a very high melting point
because a large amount of energy is needed to overcome the many strong covalent
bonds. There are no electrons or other charged particles that are free to move so
diamond does not conduct electricity.

b) Graphite conducts electricity. Graphite has delocalised electrons, just like

metals. These electrons are free to move between the layers in graphite, so
graphite can conduct electricity.

c) Diamond is used in the tips of cutting tools. Diamonds are widely used in
cutting tools because they are considered to be the hardest element and are able to
cut through hard materials.

4. DRAW and label the unit cell for sodium chloride. See below
Crystal Structure of NaCl
Red- Cl -
Blue- Na +


5. Explain why sodium chloride does not conduct electricity in the solid state, but
can conduct electricity. Solid sodium chloride does not conduct electricity,
because there are no electrons which are free to move.

6. You are provided with magnesium chloride and solid iodine. Describe 2 tests that
you can use to determine which is covalent and which is ionic. Clearly state any
observation you would use to determine which is covalent and which is ionic.
Test to see if it has a high melting point
Test to see if it is brittle
Ionic- has a high melting point while covalent doesn’t .