Properties of Solids
Classifying Solids Solids can be classified according to: Bonds that hold them together (i.e. Ionic, covalent) Arrangement of particles Amorphous solids – particle arrangements lack order (rubber & glass) Crystalline solids – with organized particle arrangements and as a result a distinct shape
Properties of Solids Properties of solids depend on the forces between particles 4 types of solids Ionic (metal and a nonmetal) Metallic (metals) Molecular (nonmetals) Covalent Network (metalloid/carbon)
Ionic Crystals High melting point Hard, brittle High solubility in water Electrolytes (in solution)
Metallic Crystals Positive nuclei surrounded by loosely held valence electrons (metals have low ionization energies) Creates a “sea” of valence electrons
Metallic Crystals Property Explanation Shiny Valence electrons absorb and re-emit many wavelengths of light. Malleable, ductile Nondirectional bonds, atoms can slide over each other while remaining bonded. Electrolyte Free-floating valence electrons. Hard Strong attraction between electron sea and positive nuclei. Crystalline Electrons act as electrostatic glue.
Molecular Crystals Soft Low melting point Nonelectrolytes
Covalent Network Crystals Very hard and brittle Very high melting points Nonelectrolytes