Why are ionic compounds usually hard? Ionic compounds are usually hard due to the strong electrostatic forces of attraction between oppositely charged ions. These forces, known as ionic bonds, hold the ions together in a rigid crystalline structure. Reasons for Hardness of Ionic Compounds: Strong Electrostatic Forces In ionic compounds, cations (positively charged ions) and … Read more

What is formed by the transfer of electrons? When electrons are transferred from one atom to another, ions are formed, which then combine to create ionic compounds. This process is known as ionic bonding and typically occurs between a metal and a non-metal. Formation of Ions Cations (+) – Metals lose electrons Example: Sodium (Na) … Read more

What is the equation for the formation of MgO? The formation of magnesium oxide (MgO) occurs when magnesium (Mg) reacts with oxygen (O₂) in the air. This is a combustion reaction where magnesium burns with a bright white flame, forming magnesium oxide as a product. Balanced Chemical Equation: 2Mg+O2→2MgO2Mg + O_2 \rightarrow 2MgO Explanation of … Read more

What is the symbol of anion and cation? An anion is a negatively charged ion, while a cation is a positively charged ion. Their symbols are represented using element symbols along with their charge. Symbol of Cation (+ Charge) A cation is formed when an atom loses electrons and carries a positive charge. The symbol … Read more

Which is more basic, Na₂O or MgO? Sodium oxide (Na₂O) is more basic than magnesium oxide (MgO) because it forms a stronger alkaline solution when dissolved in water. The difference in basicity arises due to the nature of the metal oxides, their ionic character, and their solubility in water. Comparison of Basicity Sodium Oxide (Na₂O) … Read more

What are the 7 properties of ionic compounds? Ionic compounds have distinct physical and chemical properties due to their strong electrostatic forces between positively and negatively charged ions. Here are the seven key properties of ionic compounds: 1. High Melting and Boiling Points Ionic compounds have strong electrostatic forces of attraction between oppositely charged ions. … Read more

Is Na₂O brittle? Yes, sodium oxide (Na₂O) is brittle because it is an ionic compound. In ionic compounds, the ions are arranged in a strong, rigid crystal lattice held together by electrostatic forces between oppositely charged ions (Na⁺ and O²⁻ in this case). Why is Na₂O brittle? Rigid Ionic Lattice – The strong electrostatic forces … Read more

What is the key difference between ionic and covalent bonds? Ionic and covalent bonds are two fundamental types of chemical bonding, and their primary difference lies in how atoms achieve stability—ionic bonds involve electron transfer, while covalent bonds involve electron sharing. In an ionic bond, one atom donates electrons to another, resulting in the formation … Read more

Valency is the combining capacity of an atom, which determines how many electrons an atom can lose, gain, or share to form a stable bond. It helps in understanding how elements interact to form compounds. To determine the valency of an element, we look at its valence electrons—the number of electrons present in the outermost … Read more