- Ionic compounds do not conduct electricity as solids because their ions are fixed in a rigid crystal lattice.
- Substance C conducts electricity in the solid state, which contradicts the behavior of an ionic compound.
- Conductivity in both the solid and molten states is a property typically associated with metals.
- Therefore, substance C is not an ionic compound. Final answer is \(\boxed{no}\).
Explanation
- Properties of Ionic Compounds
To determine if substance C is an ionic compound, we analyze its electrical conductivity properties in different states. Ionic compounds are characterized by a rigid crystalline structure in their solid form, where ions are held firmly in place and are unable to move freely. Consequently, ionic compounds do not conduct electricity in the solid state. However, when an ionic compound is melted (molten) or dissolved in a suitable solvent, the crystal lattice breaks down, and the ions become free to move, enabling the substance to conduct electricity.
- Analyzing Substance C Data
Looking at the data provided for substance C:
- Conductivity when solid: "yes"
- Conductivity when molten: "yes"
- Conductivity when in solution: "N/A"
Comparing these properties to the known characteristics of ionic compounds, we observe a direct contradiction. Substance C conducts electricity in its solid form, whereas ionic compounds are non-conductive as solids because their ions are not free to move. The ability to conduct electricity in both solid and molten states is characteristic of metallic bonding, where delocalized electrons move freely through the structure. Therefore, the data suggests that substance C exhibits metallic behavior rather than ionic behavior.
- Conclusion
Based on the analysis, substance C is not an ionic compound because it conducts electricity in the solid state, which is a property that contradicts the fundamental definition of ionic compounds. The final answer is \(\boxed{no}\).
Examples
In a chemistry laboratory, you might be asked to identify unknown samples. By testing their electrical conductivity in solid and liquid states, you can classify substances into categories like metals, ionic compounds, or covalent compounds. For example, if a sample conducts electricity as a solid, you immediately know it is likely a metal, saving you from misclassifying it as an ionic salt. This type of deductive reasoning is essential for material science and industrial chemical identification.