The physical properties of ionic substances
2 marks · NormalDescribe the arrangement of ions in the giant ionic lattice of sodium chloride.
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Each sodium ion is surrounded by six chloride ions, and each chloride ion is surrounded by six sodium ions; the ions are arranged in a repeating three-dimensional lattice extending in all directions.
Also accept: Each Na+ ion is surrounded by 6 Cl- ions and vice versa in a regular repeating lattice.; The ions are arranged so that each ion is surrounded by six of the opposite charge, extending throughout.
Common mistakes: Referring to sodium chloride as a molecule; Stating incorrect numbers of surrounding ions; Not mentioning the three-dimensional or giant nature of the lattice
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Marking points
B1 · 1 mark · States that each sodium ion is surrounded by six chloride ions and each chloride ion by six sodium ions.
B2 · 1 mark · Mentions the structure is a regular, repeating giant lattice extending in all directions.
Worked solution
In the giant ionic lattice of sodium chloride, each sodium ion (Na+) is surrounded by six chloride ions (Cl-), and each chloride ion is surrounded by six sodium ions.
This arrangement forms a regular, repeating three-dimensional lattice that extends in all directions.