Skip to main content
Ch.8 - Basic Concepts of Chemical Bonding
Chapter 8, Problem 28

Which of the following trends in lattice energy is due to differences in ionic radii: a. NaCl > RbBr > CsBr, b. BaO > KF, c. SrO > SrCl2?

Verified Solution

Video duration:
11m
This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.
Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Lattice Energy

Lattice energy is the energy released when gaseous ions combine to form an ionic solid. It is a measure of the strength of the forces between the ions in an ionic compound. Higher lattice energy indicates stronger ionic bonds, which typically results from smaller ionic radii and higher charges on the ions.
Recommended video:
Guided course
00:49
Lattice Energy

Ionic Radii

Ionic radii refer to the size of ions in a crystal lattice. The size of an ion affects the distance between the centers of the ions in a lattice, influencing the lattice energy. Generally, smaller ions lead to stronger attractions and higher lattice energies due to their closer proximity in the lattice structure.
Recommended video:
Guided course
03:07
Ranking Ionic Radii

Trends in Ionic Compounds

Trends in ionic compounds often relate to the size and charge of the ions involved. For example, as you move down a group in the periodic table, ionic radii increase, which typically decreases lattice energy. Understanding these trends helps predict the relative lattice energies of different ionic compounds based on their constituent ions.
Recommended video:
Guided course
02:11
Ionic Compounds Naming