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Ch.22 - The Main Group Elements
Chapter 22, Problem 61

Compare some of the physical properties of TiH1.7, HCl, and CaH2.

Verified step by step guidance
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Step 1: Identify the type of bonding in each compound. TiH1.7 is a metal hydride with metallic bonding, HCl is a covalent compound with polar covalent bonding, and CaH2 is an ionic compound with ionic bonding.
Step 2: Consider the state of matter at room temperature. TiH1.7 is typically a solid due to its metallic bonding, HCl is a gas because of its small molecular size and weak intermolecular forces, and CaH2 is a solid due to its ionic lattice structure.
Step 3: Analyze the melting and boiling points. Metallic and ionic compounds like TiH1.7 and CaH2 generally have higher melting and boiling points compared to covalent compounds like HCl, which has relatively low melting and boiling points.
Step 4: Examine electrical conductivity. TiH1.7, being a metal hydride, can conduct electricity in its solid state. HCl, when dissolved in water, conducts electricity due to ionization, while CaH2 conducts electricity when molten or dissolved due to the presence of free-moving ions.
Step 5: Discuss solubility in water. HCl is highly soluble in water, forming hydrochloric acid. CaH2 reacts with water to produce calcium hydroxide and hydrogen gas, while TiH1.7 is generally insoluble in water.

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Chemical Composition and Structure

The chemical composition and structure of a compound significantly influence its physical properties. TiH1.7, HCl, and CaH2 differ in their elemental makeup and bonding types. TiH1.7 is a titanium hydride with metallic characteristics, HCl is a molecular compound with covalent bonds, and CaH2 is an ionic compound formed from calcium and hydrogen. Understanding these differences helps predict properties like melting point, boiling point, and solubility.
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Intermolecular Forces

Intermolecular forces are the forces of attraction or repulsion between molecules and play a crucial role in determining physical properties such as boiling and melting points. HCl, being a polar molecule, exhibits dipole-dipole interactions, while CaH2, an ionic compound, has strong ionic bonds. TiH1.7, with its metallic bonding, has delocalized electrons contributing to its unique properties. The strength and type of these forces directly affect the compounds' states at room temperature.
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Phase and State of Matter

The phase and state of matter of a substance are influenced by temperature and pressure, as well as the nature of the intermolecular forces present. TiH1.7 is typically a solid at room temperature, while HCl can exist as a gas or liquid depending on conditions, and CaH2 is a solid. Understanding the phase behavior of these compounds is essential for comparing their physical properties, such as density and reactivity under various conditions.
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