1.5 Solid Structures

Question 1

What is the crystal coordination numbers for CsCl and NaCl?

Answer 1

CsCl= 8:8
NaCl= 6:6

Question 2

Describe and explain the ionic crystal structures of NaCl and CsCl:

Answer 2

Na can only accommodate 6 anions to one cation, whereas Cs can accommodate 8 anions to one cation. This is because Cs is a bigger atom and bigger atoms are able to accommodate more. They are arranged to increase the bond energy by maximising electrostatic attraction and minimising repulsion.

Question 3

Describe the structure of diamond:

Answer 3

Tetrahedral strong covalent arrangement, along with a three dimensional giant structure.

Question 4

Describe the structure of graphite:

Answer 4

Layers made up of covalent hexagons, these layers are held together by weak forces.