Ionic compounds

CC5c.4 Homework 1

Name Class Date

Symbols of some ions: Na+ K+ Mg2+ Ca2+ Cl– Br– I– O2–

1 Use the symbols of the ions given above to work out the formulae of:
a sodium iodide c magnesium oxide
b potassium oxide d calcium bromide
2 The ions in an ionic compound are arranged in a lattice. On the diagram below, add + signs and – signs to
show the arrangement of positively charged ions and negatively charged ions in a lattice.

3 Complete the sentences below using words from the box.

atoms attraction high ions large low molecules repulsion small strong weak

Ionic compounds have ____________ melting points. There are ____________ electrostatic forces of

____________ between the ___________ so a ___________ amount of energy is needed to separate them.

4 The circuit on the right can be used to see if an

aqueous solution of a substance conducts an
electric current.
Add the missing labels to complete the diagram.
5 Which of these is true for all ionic compounds?
Circle the correct answer.
Ionic compounds do not conduct electricity when
solid, because:

A electrons can flow C the atoms

through the gaps in cannot move
the lattice D the ions
B they contain a cannot
metal, and metals move.
conduct electricity

6 Explain why ionic compounds conduct electricity when they are dissolved in water.

7 The melting point of potassium chloride is 770 °C and that of calcium oxide is 2614 °C.
Suggest a reason why the melting point of calcium oxide is much higher than that of potassium chloride.
(Hint: look at the symbols for the ions in the box at the top of the page.)

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