Moderate

Ionic solids do not conduct the electrical current because:

Correct answer: A. Ions don't have translatory motion

  • A. Ions don't have translatory motion
  • B. The coordination number of ion is very high
  • C. Free electrons are less
  • D. Strong covalent bonds are present in their structure

Explanation

In a solid ionic crystal, positive and negative ions are fixed at lattice positions, so they cannot move through the solid to carry charge. When molten or dissolved, the ions become mobile and the substance conducts electricity. The likely mistake is choosing c, but ionic solids do not conduct because of the lack of mobile ions, not because they contain too few free electrons.

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About Ionic and Molecular Crystals

Ionic crystals contain oppositely charged ions held by electrostatic forces, whereas molecular crystals contain discrete molecules joined by weaker intermolecular forces. Their structures explain differences in melting point, hardness, volatility, solubility and electrical conductivity, especially between solid and molten states.

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