Question

a solid compound in a sealed container was kept at a very low temperature in a freezer. when placed at room temperature, the substance quickly turned into a liquid. this compound is most likely which of the following?
o an ionic compound because it has a low boiling point
o a covalent compound because it has a low boiling point
o an ionic compound because it has a low melting point
o a covalent compound because it has a low melting point

Explanation:

• Ionic compounds have strong electrostatic forces between ions, leading to high melting and boiling points.
• Covalent compounds (especially non - polar ones) have weak intermolecular forces, resulting in lower melting and boiling points.
• The process described is melting (solid to liquid), not boiling (liquid to gas).

Answer:

a covalent compound because it has a low melting point.