Question 12
Chemical BondingThe stability of ionic solids is generally due to the
- A.negative electron affinity of most atoms
- B.crystal lattice forces
- C.electron pair sharing
- D.positive ionization potentials
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: B (crystal lattice forces)
Explanation
In an ionic solid, each ion is held by strong electrostatic attractions to many oppositely charged neighbours in the crystal lattice. This lattice energy makes ionic solids stable.