What is the boiling point and melting point trend observed in giant metallic and covalent lattices?

Study for the AS Level Chemistry Exam. Test your knowledge with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question comes with hints and explanations. Prepare confidently for your exam!

Giant metallic and covalent lattices exhibit high boiling and melting points due to the presence of strong bonding interactions within their structures. In metallic lattices, metal atoms are held together by metallic bonds, which feature a sea of delocalized electrons that allow for strong attractions between positively charged metal cations and the electron cloud. This strong bonding requires a significant amount of energy to break, leading to high melting and boiling points.

Similarly, covalent lattices consist of atoms connected by strong covalent bonds. In this arrangement, atoms share electrons, forming a three-dimensional network that also requires substantial energy to overcome these strong interactions when transitioning from solid to liquid and from liquid to gas.

In contrast to weaker intermolecular forces or ionic bonds, which would typically result in lower melting and boiling points, the strong bonds found in both types of lattices are the primary reason for their high thermal stability. Thus, the answer highlighting this characteristic of strong bonds leading to high boiling and melting points is the most accurate.

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