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Predicting structures and properties

Predicting structures and properties

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Explainer Video

Tutor: Aimee LeBrun

Summary

Predicting structures and properties  

​​In a nutshell

The structure of a compound can be predicted by looking at its properties.



Properties

There are several different properties that can be looked at to determine the structure of a compound:

  • Melting and boiling point - determines strength of attraction 
  • Electrical conductivity - determines whether there are any free or charged particles 
  • Solubility in water - determines the ability to form hydrogen bonds or if ions are charged



Properties of different structures       

Below is table of the different properties shown for each type of bonding.   


bond

MELTING/

BOILING POINT

STATE AT R.T.P

electrical CONDUCTIVITY

sOluble in water

EXAMPle

Ionic

High

Solid

Solid - no

Liquid - yes, ions are broken down and are free to move

Yes
​BaCl2BaCl_2BaCl2​​​

Simple covalent

Low - no covalent bonds are broken

Normally liquid / gas
No 

Dependant on hydrogen bond formation
​F2F_2F2​​​

Giant covalent

High

Solid
Solid - no, except graphite / graphene 
Liquid - N/A sublimes to a gas 

No
​SiO2SiO_2SiO2​​​

Metallic 

High

Solid
Yes, the structure contains delocalised electrons  

No
​NaNaNa​​


Note: R.T.P stands for room temperature and pressure.  


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Learn with Basics

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Length:
Changes of state

Unit 1

Changes of state

Bonding, structure and properties of matter

Unit 2

Bonding, structure and properties of matter

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Predicting structures and properties

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Predicting structures and properties

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FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

What does the solubility in water determine about the structure of a substance?

The solubility in water determines the ability to form hydrogen bonds or if ions in the structure are charged.

What does the electrical conductivity determine about a structure of a substance?

Electrical conductivity determines whether there are any free or charged particles.

How can the structure of a compound be predicited?

The structure of a compound can be predicted by looking at its properties.

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