Properties of Substances (WJEC GCSE Chemistry)
Revision Note
Properties of Substances
Elements can form different types of substance:
The type of structure formed gives rise to bulk properties
Examples of bulk properties include electrical conductivity, and melting/boiling points
Individual atoms do not possess these physical properties, rather they arise due to many atoms, ions or molecules acting together
Summary of the properties of different substances
Type of substance | Example | Can it conduct? | Explanation | Melting / boiling point | Explanation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ionic | sodium chloride | No when solid Yes when molten or aqueous | When molten or aqueous, the ions are free to move and carry a charge | High | Strong electrostatic forces of attraction between oppositely charged ions |
Simple molecules | carbon dioxide | No | There are no free charged particles | Low | Weak intermolecular forces |
Giant covalent | graphite, diamond | No (except graphite and fullerenes) | Graphite and fullerenes have delocalised electrons which are free to move and carry a charge | High | Strong covalent bonds between atoms |
Metallic | copper, sodium | Yes | Delocalised electrons which are free to move and carry a charge | High | Strong attraction between metal ions and delocalised electrons |
Examiner Tips and Tricks
It is important that you can explain the properties of each type of substance which can be found in detail in the next few pages.
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