Chapter 12: Problem 12

Silicon is the fundamental component of integrated circuits. Si has the same structure as diamond. (a) Is Si a molecular, metallic, ionic, or covalent- network solid? (b) Silicon readily reacts to form silicon dioxide, \(\mathrm{SiO}_{2}\) , which is quite hard and is insoluble in water. Is \(\mathrm{SiO}_{2}\) most likely a molecular, metallic, ionic, or covalent- network solid?

Short Answer

Expert verified

(a) Silicon (Si) is a covalent-network solid. (b) Silicon dioxide (SiO2) is most likely a covalent-network solid.

Step by step solution

Silicon (Si) has the same structure as diamond, which means it has a covalent-network solid structure. In a covalent-network solid, atoms are held together by covalent bonds in an extensive three-dimensional network. Since Si has four valence electrons and bonds with four other Si atoms, it forms a covalent-network solid. So, the answer for part (a) is: Silicon (Si) is a covalent-network solid. #Step 2: Determine the type of solid for Silicon dioxide (SiO2)#

Silicon dioxide (SiO2) is formed when Silicon reacts with Oxygen. Oxygen has six valence electrons and tends to form two covalent bonds to complete its octet. While Silicon has four valence electrons and can form four covalent bonds. When they react, each Silicon atom bonds with two Oxygen atoms, and each Oxygen atom bonds with two Silicon atoms in a three-dimensional lattice structure. This kind of bonding is characteristic of a covalent-network solid. The fact that SiO2 is hard and insoluble in water also indicates that it is a covalent-network solid. So, the answer for part (b) is: Silicon dioxide (SiO2) is most likely a covalent-network solid.