Question 8

Ionic solids conduct electricity in molten state but not in solid state. Explain.

Answer

In an ionic solids the lattice is made of positive and negative ions. These are held together by ionic bonds-the strong electrostatic attractions between oppositely charged ions. Consequently, the cations and anions attract each other and pack together in an arrangement so that the attractive forces maximize. The ionic solids are insulators in the solid state because the ions are entrapped in fixed places in the crystal lattice and cannot move when electric field is applied. However, in molten state, they become good conductors of electricity. This is due to the fact that in molten state, the well- ordered arrangement of ions in the solids is destroyed and the ions are in a position to move about in the liquid medium when an electric field is applied. For example NaCl.

Popular Questions of Class 12 Chemistry

Recently Viewed Questions of Class 12 Chemistry

5 Comment(s) on this Question

Write a Comment: