Identify each solid as molecular, ionic, or atomic. d. I₂(s)

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Identify the type of elements present in the compound I₂(s).

Recognize that I₂ is composed of two iodine atoms bonded together.

Understand that iodine is a non-metal and forms diatomic molecules.

Recall that molecular solids are composed of molecules held together by intermolecular forces.

Conclude that I₂(s) is a molecular solid because it consists of I₂ molecules held together by van der Waals forces.

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Key Concepts

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

Molecular Solids

Molecular solids are composed of molecules held together by intermolecular forces such as van der Waals forces, dipole-dipole interactions, or hydrogen bonds. These solids typically have low melting and boiling points compared to ionic or atomic solids. An example is iodine (I2), which forms a molecular solid at room temperature.

Ionic Solids

Ionic solids consist of positively and negatively charged ions held together by strong electrostatic forces known as ionic bonds. These solids generally have high melting and boiling points due to the strength of the ionic interactions. Common examples include sodium chloride (NaCl) and magnesium oxide (MgO).

Atomic Solids

Atomic solids are composed of atoms held together by covalent bonds, metallic bonds, or van der Waals forces. They can be further classified into covalent network solids, like diamond, which have very high melting points, and metallic solids, which conduct electricity and have variable melting points. These solids exhibit unique properties based on their atomic structure.

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Textbook Question

Identify each solid as molecular, ionic, or atomic. a. Ar(s) b. H₂O(s) c. K₂O(s) d. Fe(s)