In: Chemistry
Identify the substance that is a molecular solid and explain how you got your answer.
a. C(graphite)
b. H2O
c. Sc
d. K2S
A molecular solid is a type of solid in which molecules are held together by van der Waals forces rather than by ionic or covalent bonds.
PROPERTIES OF MOLECULAR SOLIDS
The dipole forces are weaker than ionic or covalent bonds. The relatively weak intermolecular forces cause molecular solids to have relatively low melting points, typically less than 300 °C. Molecular solids tend to dissolve in organic solvents.
Most molecular solids are relatively soft, electrical insulators and have low density.
EXAMPLES OF MOLECULAR SOLIDS
H2O is a molecular solid