GED Science TestPhysical ScienceMedium
A chemist is analyzing a newly synthesized compound. They determine that the compound has a high melting point, is soluble in water, and conducts electricity when dissolved in water but not in its solid state. Based on these properties, what type of bonding is most likely present in this compound?
- ACovalent bonding.
- BIonic bonding.
- CHydrogen bonding.
- DMetallic bonding.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Ionic bonding.
Ionic compounds typically have high melting points, are often soluble in water, and conduct electricity when molten or dissolved because their ions are free to move. They do not conduct as solids because the ions are fixed in a lattice.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Covalent compounds generally have lower melting points and do not typically conduct electricity when dissolved (unless they react to form ions).
- C. Hydrogen bonding is an intermolecular force, not a primary type of chemical bond, and doesn't explain electrical conductivity.
- D. Metallic compounds conduct electricity in solid and molten states and are generally not soluble in water.
Ionic Bonding Properties
Chemical bonds formed by the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions, resulting from the transfer of electrons between atoms.
- Typically occurs between metals and nonmetals.
- Forms crystal lattices in the solid state.
- High melting/boiling points, often soluble in polar solvents (like water), conducts electricity only when ions are mobile (molten/aqueous).
Memory trick: Covalent 'Shares', Ionic 'Transfers', Metallic 'Pools'.