The physical properties of ionic substances
3 marks · EasyName the two types of ions found in sodium chloride.
Describe the arrangement of ions around a single sodium ion in the lattice.
State whether sodium chloride exists as molecules or as a giant ionic lattice.
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(a) Sodium ions (Na⁺) and chloride ions (Cl⁻)
(b) Each sodium ion is surrounded by 6 chloride ions.
(c) A giant ionic lattice.
Common mistakes: Saying molecules; Saying covalent bonds
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Marking points
B1 (a) · 1 mark · Identifies sodium ions (Na⁺) and chloride ions (Cl⁻)
B1 (b) · 1 mark · States each sodium ion is surrounded by 6 chloride ions
B1 (c) · 1 mark · States sodium chloride has a giant ionic lattice structure
Worked solution
a) The ions present are sodium ions (Na⁺) and chloride ions (Cl⁻).
b) In the lattice, each sodium ion is surrounded by 6 chloride ions.
c) Sodium chloride exists as a giant ionic lattice, not as molecules.