GCSE · Chemistry · AQA · Spec 8462
Giant covalent structures
Why the melting point is so high
Reason it through
Why do giant covalent substances have very high melting points?
First link · your turn
What links the atoms throughout the giant structure?
Relationship matrix
Tap any cell to reveal it. Tap a column header to read one property down every item.
Each cell hides a short answer and the reason behind it. Predict before you tap.
How to read a structure diagram
Follow the bonding before deciding what the diagram represents.
- Trace the atomsLook for atoms connected onwards to other atoms throughout a giant structure.
- Identify the linksThose links are strong covalent bonds between atoms in the structure.
- Recognise the categoryA diagram showing this giant covalently bonded arrangement represents a giant covalent structure.
- Connect to the propertyBecause the strong covalent bonds must be overcome on melting, the substance has a very high melting point.
Which structure fits?
Commit to the structural clue before revealing the answer.
Which diagram description best supports identifying a substance as giant covalent?
Build the property explanation
Problem
Explain why a giant covalent substance is solid with a very high melting point.
WHAT YOU'VE LEARNED
A quick recap of today's lesson.
Strong covalent bonds throughout a giant structure explain why these solids have very high melting points.
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