Classify each of the following statements as true or false: (a) For molecular solids, the melting point generally increases as the strengths of the covalent bonds increase. (b) For molecular solids, the melting point generally increases as the strengths of the intermolecular forces increase.

Short Answer

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Statement (a) is false as the melting point of molecular solids is not directly affected by the strength of covalent bonds within the molecules. Statement (b) is true as the melting point generally increases with the increase in the strengths of the intermolecular forces between the molecules.

Step by step solution

01

Statement (a): Melting point and covalent bond strength

Molecular solids are composed of individual molecules held together by covalent bonds within the molecules and intermolecular forces between the molecules. When we talk about the strength of covalent bonds, we are referring to the forces within the molecule itself. However, when a molecular solid melts, it does not involve the breaking of covalent bonds within the molecules. Instead, it involves the breaking of intermolecular forces between the molecules. So, the strength of covalent bonds within the molecule does not directly affect the melting point of a molecular solid. Hence, we can classify statement (a) as false.
02

Statement (b): Melting point and strength of intermolecular forces

As mentioned earlier, molecular solids are held together by intermolecular forces between the molecules. These forces can be dipole-dipole interactions, hydrogen bonding, or Van der Waals forces. The melting point of a molecular solid is directly related to the strength of these intermolecular forces. When a molecular solid melts, the intermolecular forces between the molecules are broken, allowing the molecules to move freely. If the intermolecular forces are stronger, more energy will be required to break them, resulting in a higher melting point. Therefore, the melting point generally increases as the strengths of the intermolecular forces increase. Thus, we can classify statement (b) as true.

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