1. Ions form a closely packed regular lattice arrangement
2. There are very strong electrostatic forces of attraction between oppositely charged ions, in all directions in the lattice
Sodium chloride (table salt)
A single crystal is one giant ionic lattice
Na+ and Cl- ions are held together in a regular lattice
The model shows the relative position of the ions as well as the regular pattern of an ionic crystal, but it only lets you see the outer layer of the compound
Make sure you learn what the structure of sodium chloride looks like
Ball and stick model
Shows how the ions are arranged and how the crystal extends beyond what's shown in the diagram
The model doesn't show the relative sizes of the ions
Ionic Compounds
Have high melting points and high boiling points due to the many strong bonds between the ions
When solid, the ions are held in place so the compounds don't conduct electricity
When molten or in aqueous solution, the ions are free to move and can conduct electricity
Finding the formula of an ionic compound
1. Look at the charges of the ions
2. Count the number of each type of ion
3. Balance the charges so the overall charge is zero
