Molecular structure

• Graphite


  • The line electrons are free to move
  • Has 3 strong covalent bonds (2D)
  • Needs to break weak bonds between layers to allow the layers to slide
  • Conducts heat and electricity
• Diamond


  • Has strong tetrahedral covalent bonds in a 3D shape forming a giant covalent structure
  • Used for drills and saw blades
  • Requires a large amount of energy to break the bonds, giving it a high melting point
• Giant ionic structure


  • Strong electrostatic force between ions
  • High melting points
  • Conduct when molten or aqueous
• Giant covalent (macromolecular) structure

  • Plastics & Polymers
• Giant metallic structure


  • Delocalised electrons
  • Conduct electricity
• Simple molecular structure


  • Strong covalent bonds between atoms
  • Weak intermolecular forces between molecules
  • Low boiling points
• Halogens


  • Cl2
  • Br2
  • I2
• Halogens have the following properties: colourless, pale brown, grey, black, green