A Level Chemistry OCR Practice Exam

What best describes a giant ionic lattice?

1. A regular three-dimensional structure of oppositely charged ions, bonded together by strong ionic bonds.

2. A linear arrangement of atoms bonded by covalent bonds.

3. A random arrangement of gas molecules with negligible interactions.

4. A configuration of positive ions and delocalized electrons.

The correct answer is: A regular three-dimensional structure of oppositely charged ions, bonded together by strong ionic bonds.

A giant ionic lattice is best described as a regular three-dimensional structure of oppositely charged ions, bonded together by strong ionic bonds. This arrangement occurs when metal ions, which possess a positive charge, attract non-metal ions with a negative charge, forming a stable structure through the electrostatic forces of attraction. The lattice structure maximizes the attractions between these oppositely charged ions while minimizing repulsions, resulting in a strong and stable framework. In a giant ionic lattice, each ion is surrounded by ions of opposite charge, leading to a repetitive pattern that extends throughout the material. This structure gives rise to distinct properties, such as high melting and boiling points, due to the robust ionic bonds that require considerable energy to break. The other options do not accurately represent the nature of a giant ionic lattice. A linear arrangement of atoms bonded by covalent bonds refers to covalent bonding rather than ionic interactions. A random arrangement of gas molecules emphasizes negligible interactions typical of gases, which is not relevant to solid ionic lattices. Lastly, a configuration of positive ions and delocalized electrons points to metallic bonding, not the ionic bonding characterizing the giant ionic lattice. Thus, the option describing the regular three-dimensional structure of oppositely charged ions bonded by