Giant covalent structures
- Giant covalent structures are solids with high melting points
- They have a huge number of non-metal atoms bonded to other non-metal atoms via strong covalent bonds
- These structures can also be called giant lattices and have a fixed ratio of atoms in the overall structure
- Three examples include diamond, graphite and silicon dioxide
Examiner Tip
If you are unsure whether a covalent structure is a giant structure or consists of small molecules, think about whether it is a solid, liquid or gas at room temperature. Giant covalent structures are solids at room temperature, those consisting of small molecules are liquids and gases.
Diamond, graphite and silicon dioxide 