Question

david observed properties of four different compounds, only one of which is an ionic compound. his observations are shown in the chart. which is most likely the ionic compound? compound observations w is a hard solid, melts at 44°c, has a molecular structure x is a little solid, does not conduct electricity in water, has a crystal structure y is a hard solid, conducts electricity, has a molecular structure z is a brittle solid, melts at 801°c, has a crystal structure

Explanation:

Ionic compounds are typically brittle solids with high melting points (due to strong ionic bonds) and have a crystal structure. Compound Z is a brittle solid, melts at \(801^{\circ}C\) (a high - melting point), and has a crystal structure. Compound W has a low melting point (\(44^{\circ}C\)) and a molecular structure (not ionic). Compound X does not conduct electricity in water (ionic compounds conduct electricity when dissolved in water as they dissociate into ions). Compound Y conducts electricity and has a molecular structure (metals conduct electricity, but ionic compounds in solid form do not conduct electricity; molecular compounds usually do not conduct electricity in the solid form unless they are special like some polymers, but the key is the structure and melting point).

Answer:

Z