what are two general properties of molecular compounds?
Generally they are soft and have a low melting point (when compared to ionic compounds). There are exceptions, of course. For exmaple, diamond is not soft.
To determine general properties of molecular compounds, we need to understand the nature of these compounds, which are composed of individual molecules held together by covalent bonds. Here are two general properties:
1. Low Melting and Boiling Points: Molecular compounds tend to have lower melting and boiling points compared to ionic compounds. This is because intermolecular forces (such as London dispersion forces, dipole-dipole interactions, and hydrogen bonding) between individual molecules are weaker than the strong electrostatic forces holding ions together in ionic compounds. Consequently, less energy is required to break these intermolecular forces and transition from solid to liquid or liquid to gas.
2. Softness: Molecular compounds are generally softer compared to ionic compounds. This is because the individual molecules in molecular compounds are not arranged in a repetitive lattice structure like ionic compounds. As a result, molecular compounds have less structural rigidity and are more likely to be malleable or deformable.
It's important to note that these properties are generalizations, and exceptions do exist. Some molecular compounds can have higher melting points due to the presence of strong intermolecular forces. For example, diamond, a molecular compound made up of carbon atoms, has an extremely high melting point due to its strong covalent bonds and three-dimensional network structure.
To determine the specific properties of a particular molecular compound, it is necessary to consider its chemical composition, molecular structure, and intermolecular forces.