Question 1: Define an ionic bond and describe how it forms between two atoms.

Answer: An ionic bond is a type of chemical bond formed when one atom transfers electrons to another, resulting in oppositely charged ions that attract each other. It forms between a metal and a non-metal, where the metal loses electrons and the non-metal gains electrons.

Question 2: List three common properties of ionic compounds.

Answer: Ionic compounds typically have high melting and boiling points, are usually crystalline solids at room temperature, and tend to be soluble in water.

Question 3: Explain why ionic compounds tend to conduct electricity when melted or dissolved in water.

Answer: In their solid state, ions in ionic compounds are fixed in a lattice and cannot move freely, so they do not conduct electricity. When melted or dissolved, ions become free to move, allowing electrical current to pass through.

Question 4: What is the primary mechanism that causes ionic compounds to have high melting points?

Answer: The strong electrostatic forces of attraction between oppositely charged ions require a large amount of energy to break, resulting in high melting points.

Question 5: Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a typical property of an ionic compound?

Answer: Good electrical conductor when solid

Question 6: Fill in the blank: Ionic bonds form between a metal and a __________.

Answer: non-metal

Question 7: Describe in your own words how the transfer of electrons leads to the formation of ionic bonds.

Answer: In ionic bonding, a metal atom loses one or more electrons to become a positively charged ion (cation), while a non-metal atom gains those electrons to become a negatively charged ion (anion). The electrostatic attraction between these oppositely charged ions results in the formation of an ionic bond, creating a stable ionic compound.

Question 8: Identify a real-world example of an ionic compound and explain its property that makes it useful in industry.

Answer: Sodium chloride (table salt) is an ionic compound with high solubility in water and high melting point, making it useful as a preservative and flavor enhancer in food processing.

Question 9: Analyzing data: A sample of an ionic compound has a melting point of 800°C. What does this tell you about the strength of the ionic bonds in this compound?

Answer: A high melting point of 800°C indicates that the ionic bonds are very strong, requiring a large amount of energy to break the electrostatic attraction between ions.

Question 10: Explain one safety precaution to consider when working with ionic compounds in a laboratory setting.

Answer: Always wear safety goggles and gloves to prevent skin and eye contact with potentially harmful or irritating ionic compounds.