🎯 Common Question Types:
- Explain high melting point of an ionic compound (2-3 marks)
- Explain why it conducts when molten but not when solid (2 marks)
- Compare melting points of two ionic compounds (2 marks)
- Explain brittleness in terms of structure (2 marks)
📝 Key Command Words:
- Explain: Reference structure — lattice, electrostatic forces, ions fixed/free
- Compare: State both compounds' properties AND explain the difference
- Predict: Apply the rules (higher charge = higher MP) to an unfamiliar compound
- Describe: Give the arrangement of ions in the lattice
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Saying ionic compounds "have molecules" — they have lattices, no molecules
- Saying it conducts because "it has ions" — must say ions are FREE TO MOVE
- Forgetting that only the lattice structure (not individual bonds) breaks during melting
- Not mentioning "electrostatic" when discussing forces in ionic compounds
- Ignoring ion size when comparing melting points (charge is most important, but size matters too)
This exam tips covers Exam Tips for Ionic Compounds within Ionic Compounds for GCSE Chemistry. Revise Ionic Compounds in Bonding & Structure for GCSE Chemistry with 21 exam-style questions and 21 flashcards. Use this page as part of a wider topic revision path rather than treating it as an isolated fact. It is section 11 of 12 in this topic. Treat this as a marking guide for what examiners are looking for, not just a fact list.
Practice questions for Ionic Compounds
What type of structure is found in all ionic compounds?
Explain why magnesium oxide conducts electricity when it is molten but not when it is solid.
Quick recall flashcards
What is a giant ionic lattice?
A regular 3D arrangement of alternating positive and negative ions extending in all directions
Memory aid: When does an ionic compound conduct electricity?
Solid = stuck (ions fixed, no conduction)
Liquid = loose (ions free to move)
Solution = swimming (ions free to move)
Only liquid and solution conduct!