Basics of Atoms & Bonding and Chemical Reactions

Properties of Ionic Compounds

There are 3 properties: Hard, brittle Crystals, High Melting Points, Electrical Conductivity

Hard, brittle crystals: Ionic compounds form together in 3D dimensional crystals. The force is so strong that they bonde together. Oppositely charged ions attract each other and form a bond.

High Melting Points: When ionic compounds form, the ions come together in a way that balances out the charges of the ions. This happens when very high temperatures take place. Because the ions are so strong you need very high melting points to separate them.

Electrical Conductivity: Ionic solid compounds don't conduct electricity. When two opposite ions mix (dissolve) in a liquid solution they might conduct electricity. They will not conduct electricity if not in a liquid solution. Ions move more freely in liquid.