Describe and give examples of the following types of crystals: (a) ionic crystals, (b) covalent crystals, (c) molecular crystals, (d) metallic crystals.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Ionic crystals are formed by electrostatic forces between ions (e.g. NaCl), Covalent crystals are made up of atoms connected by covalent bonds (e.g. Diamond), Molecular crystals are formed by molecules held together by intermolecular forces (e.g. water in ice state), and Metallic crystals consist of cations surrounded by delocalized electrons (e.g. Iron).

Step by step solution

01

Define and describe ionic crystals

Ionic crystals are formed by the strong electrostatic forces between oppositely charged ions. These forces keep the ions locked in a rigid lattice structure. The hardness and brittleness of the ionic crystals depend on the strength of these forces. Example of ionic crystal include Sodium Chloride (NaCl), Potassium Bromide (KBr), etc.
02

Define and describe covalent crystals

Covalent crystals are composed of atoms connected by covalent bonds. The entire crystal can be considered a 'single molecule'. They are hard, often brittle, with high melting and boiling points due to their strong covalent bonds. Example of covalent crystal include Diamond (carbon atom crystal), Silicon Dioxide (SiO2), etc.
03

Define and describe molecular crystals

Molecular crystals are formed by molecules held together by intermolecular forces (Van der Waals forces, hydrogen bonds, etc.). These crystals are generally soft and have lower melting and boiling points. Examples of molecular crystals include Water in its solid state (Ice), Iodine crystal (I2), etc.
04

Define and describe metallic crystals

Metallic crystals consist of metal cations surrounded by a 'sea' of delocalized electrons (commonly known as electron cloud or electron sea). This bond formation leads to properties such as good electrical and thermal conductivity. Examples include Iron (Fe), Copper (Cu), Gold (Au), etc.

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