Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the correct chemical formula for potassium hydroxide?
1
views
3. Chemical Reactions
Naming Ionic Compounds
Struggling with General Chemistry?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
Which characteristic makes ionic compounds useful as building materials?
A
They conduct electricity in solid state.
B
They are easily deformed under pressure.
C
They are highly soluble in nonpolar solvents.
D
They have high melting points and are hard and brittle.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the nature of ionic compounds: Ionic compounds consist of positive and negative ions held together by strong electrostatic forces called ionic bonds.
Recognize that these strong ionic bonds result in a rigid and stable crystal lattice structure, which contributes to the compound's hardness and brittleness.
Note that the strong ionic bonds require a lot of energy to break, which explains why ionic compounds have high melting points.
Consider the physical properties relevant to building materials: hardness, brittleness, and high melting points are desirable because they ensure durability and stability under various conditions.
Conclude that the characteristic making ionic compounds useful as building materials is their high melting points and their hard and brittle nature, rather than properties like electrical conductivity in solid state or solubility in nonpolar solvents.
2:11mWatch next
Master Ionic Compounds Naming with a bite sized video explanation from Jules
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice
Naming Ionic Compounds practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations