(b) Write the chemical equation that represents the process of lattice energy for the case of NaCl.

Key Concepts

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. For NaCl, lattice energy reflects the stability of the Na+ and Cl- ions in the solid state compared to their gaseous forms.

Ionic Compounds

Ionic compounds are formed when atoms transfer electrons, resulting in the formation of positively charged cations and negatively charged anions. In the case of NaCl, sodium (Na) loses an electron to become Na+, while chlorine (Cl) gains an electron to become Cl-. The electrostatic attraction between these oppositely charged ions leads to the formation of a stable ionic lattice.

Chemical Equation

A chemical equation is a symbolic representation of a chemical reaction, showing the reactants and products involved. For lattice energy, the equation typically illustrates the formation of NaCl from its constituent ions: Na+(g) + Cl-(g) → NaCl(s). This equation highlights the transition from gaseous ions to a solid ionic compound, emphasizing the energy change associated with the process.