The polar water molecules surround the individual ions in a process called solvation, which overcomes the lattice energy holding the solid together. This sudden repulsion causes the material to fracture along clean planes rather than bend.
How Ionic Compounds Conduct Electricity When Molten or Dissolved
However, when melted into a liquid or dissolved in water, the ions become free to move. Crystal Structure and Hardness Every ionic compound forms a crystal lattice where each ion is surrounded by oppositely charged ions in a highly ordered three-dimensional array.
Electrical Conductivity Insulator when solid; conductor when molten or dissolved. The brittleness is a direct consequence of the rigid lattice failing instead of deforming plastically.
Why Ionic Compounds Conduct Electricity When Molten or Dissolved
The interplay between lattice energy, ion size, and environmental conditions dictates how these materials function in the real world. Compounds like sodium chloride melt above 800 degrees Celsius, reflecting the substantial thermal energy needed to disrupt the ionic network.
More About Physical characteristics of ionic compounds
Looking at Physical characteristics of ionic compounds from another angle can help expand the discussion and give readers a second clear paragraph under the same section.
More perspective on Physical characteristics of ionic compounds can make the topic easier to follow by connecting earlier points with a few simple takeaways.
