Table of Contents
Why do ionic crystals break?
Ionic compounds are generally hard, but brittle. Why? It takes a large amount of mechanical force, such as striking a crystal with a hammer, to force one layer of ions to shift relative to its neighbor. The repulsive forces between like-charged ions cause the crystal to shatter.
Which statement best describes what happens when an ionic compound dissolves in water?
If the attraction between the ions and the water molecules is great enough to break the bonds holding the ions together, the compound dissolves. When this happens, the ions dissociate and disperse in solution, each surrounded by water molecules to prevent it from recombining.
What happens when NaCl dissolves in water?
Water molecules pull the sodium and chloride ions apart, breaking the ionic bond that held them together. After the salt compounds are pulled apart, the sodium and chloride atoms are surrounded by water molecules, as this diagram shows. Once this happens, the salt is dissolved, resulting in a homogeneous solution.
Why do ionic compounds conduct electricity when dissolved in water?
Ionic compounds conduct electricity when molten (liquid) or in aqueous solution (dissolved in water), because their ions are free to move from place to place. Ionic compounds cannot conduct electricity when solid, as their ions are held in fixed positions and cannot move.
What happens when soluble ionic compounds dissolve in water?
When ionic compounds dissolve in water, they break apart into the ions that make them up through a process called dissociation. The ions dissociate and disperse in solution, each ringed by water molecules to prevent reattachment. The ionic solution turns into an electrolyte, meaning it can conduct electricity.
Why does water dissolve ionic compounds?
Explanation: To dissolve an ionic compound, the water molecules must be able to stabilize the ions that result from breaking the ionic bond. They do this by hydrating the ions. When you place an ionic substance in water, the water molecules attract the positive and negative ions from the crystal.