Properties of Ionic Compounds

Explain exactly how the macro-level bulk properties of materials relate to their specific bond types, the inherent strength of those bonds, and the precise arrangement of bonds within the structure.

Recognize the fundamental concept that individual atoms themselves do not possess the bulk physical properties exhibited by the material as a whole.

Describe the highly regular structural arrangement characteristic of ionic compounds, emphasizing the strong multi-directional electrostatic forces of attraction.

Explain why ionic compounds naturally exhibit very high melting and boiling points, relating this directly to the large amounts of thermal energy required to sever many strong electrostatic bonds.

Explain the electrical conductivity of ionic compounds, detailing how they conduct electricity only when melted or dissolved in water because the ions are suddenly free to physically move and carry an electric charge.

Utilize fundamental concepts regarding energy transfers and the relative strengths of chemical bonds and intermolecular forces to explicitly explain the varied temperatures at which physical changes of state occur.

Predict the physical states of various chemical substances under specific given environmental conditions based entirely on provided data.