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Which solid has a simple molecular lattice? A calcium fluoride B nickel C silicon(IV) oxide D sulfur - CIE - A-Level Chemistry - Question 5 - 2010 - Paper 1
Question 5
Which solid has a simple molecular lattice? A calcium fluoride B nickel C silicon(IV) oxide D sulfur
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Which solid has a simple molecular lattice? A calcium fluoride B nickel C silicon(IV) oxide D sulfur - CIE - A-Level Chemistry - Question 5 - 2010 - Paper 1
Step 1
Which solid has a simple molecular lattice?
Answer
To determine which solid has a simple molecular lattice, we need to consider the types of bonding and structure of each option:
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Calcium Fluoride (CaF₂): This compound forms an ionic lattice structure because it consists of calcium cations and fluoride anions held together by ionic bonds. Hence, it does not have a simple molecular lattice.
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Nickel (Ni): This is a metallic solid that has a metallic lattice structure due to the presence of delocalized electrons that allow for conductivity. Therefore, it does not qualify as having a simple molecular lattice.
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Silicon(IV) Oxide (SiO₂): Also known as quartz, it has a covalent network structure rather than a simple molecular structure. It consists of a three-dimensional network of silicon and oxygen atoms, which makes it not a simple molecular lattice.
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Sulfur (S): In its most stable form, sulfur exists as S₈ molecules forming a simple molecular lattice. Each molecule comprises eight sulfur atoms. Thus, sulfur is the solid that has a simple molecular lattice.
Based on this analysis, the answer is D sulfur.