Chemistry 5070 · O Level · Giant covalent structures

Giant covalent structures — practice question

Table 9.1 gives the melting points and relative electrical conductivities of three elements.
(a(i))[3]

Use ideas about structure and bonding to explain why magnesium and phosphorus have different melting points.

(a(ii))[2]

Use ideas about structure and bonding to explain why graphite and phosphorus differ in electrical conductivity.

(b)[2]

Diamond and graphite are two distinct forms of carbon.\n\nExplain, in terms of its structure and bonding, why diamond is chosen for cutting tools.

(c)[2]

A compound made from phosphorus, oxygen and chlorine contains $20.2\%$ phosphorus, $10.4\%$ oxygen and $69.4\%$ chlorine by mass.\n\nDeduce the empirical formula of this compound.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 9-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: magnesium has a giant metallic lattice containing delocalised electrons

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