What are the properties of ionic solids?

Ionic solids are solids made up of positive and negative ions held together by strong electrostatic forces (ionic bonds).

Properties of Ionic Solids:

1. Bonding
   • Ions are arranged in a regular 3D lattice and held by strong ionic bonds.
2. Hardness and Brittleness
   • They are hard due to strong bonding, but also brittle (shatter when force is applied) because like charges may be forced close together.
3. Melting and Boiling Points
   • High melting and boiling points since strong forces need a lot of energy to break.
4. Electrical Conductivity
   • Do not conduct electricity in solid state (ions are fixed).
   • Conduct electricity in molten state or aqueous solution (ions are free to move).
5. Solubility
   • Generally soluble in polar solvents like water, but insoluble in non-polar solvents.
6. Examples
   • Sodium chloride (NaCl), Potassium bromide (KBr), Magnesium oxide (MgO), Calcium fluoride (CaF₂).