Which type (or types) of crystalline solid is characterized by each of the following? (d) network of covalent bonds.

Key Concepts

Covalent Network Solids

Covalent network solids are a type of crystalline solid where atoms are connected by a continuous network of covalent bonds. This structure results in materials that are typically very hard, have high melting points, and are poor conductors of electricity. Examples include diamond and silicon carbide, which exhibit exceptional strength and stability due to their extensive bonding.

Crystalline Solids

Crystalline solids are materials whose constituents, such as atoms or molecules, are arranged in an orderly repeating pattern extending in all three spatial dimensions. This regular arrangement leads to distinct geometric shapes and well-defined melting points. Crystalline solids can be classified into various types, including ionic, covalent, metallic, and molecular solids, each with unique properties.

Bonding Types in Solids

The type of bonding in solids significantly influences their physical properties. In covalent network solids, strong covalent bonds create a rigid structure, while ionic solids are held together by electrostatic forces between charged ions. Understanding these bonding types helps predict the behavior of materials under different conditions, such as temperature and pressure, and their suitability for various applications.