Questions: A solid is very hard and has a high melting point. Neither the solid nor its melt conducts electricity. Classify the solid. Select the single best answer. Ionic Metallic Covalent Molecular

A solid is very hard and has a high melting point. Neither the solid nor its melt conducts electricity. Classify the solid. Select the single best answer.
Ionic
Metallic
Covalent
Molecular

Transcript text: A solid is very hard and has a high melting point. Neither the solid nor its melt conducts electricity. Classify the solid. Select the single best answer. Ionic Metallic Covalent Molecular

Solution

Solution Steps

Step 1: Analyze the Properties of the Solid

The solid is described as very hard and having a high melting point. These characteristics are typical of covalent solids, which are known for their strong covalent bonds that require a lot of energy to break.

Step 2: Evaluate Electrical Conductivity

The solid and its melt do not conduct electricity. This is a key property of covalent solids, as they do not have free electrons or ions to carry an electric current. Ionic solids, in contrast, typically conduct electricity when melted or dissolved in water due to the presence of free ions.

Step 3: Compare with Other Types of Solids

Ionic Solids: Usually conduct electricity when melted or dissolved.
Metallic Solids: Conduct electricity in solid and liquid states due to free electrons.
Molecular Solids: Generally have lower melting points and are not as hard.
Covalent Solids: Do not conduct electricity and are very hard with high melting points.