Would a substance that is shiny, does not dissolve in water, does not melt under a bunsen flame, and does not conduct as a solid have a covalent, ionic, or metallic bond?
To determine whether the substance in question has a covalent, ionic, or metallic bond, we can analyze its properties and characteristics.
Shiny appearance: This suggests that the substance has a high reflectivity, which indicates the ability to efficiently reflect light. Many metallic substances possess this property, as they have a high luster due to the presence of free electrons that can easily absorb and re-emit light.
Insoluble in water: The substance's inability to dissolve in water indicates that it does not form ions when in contact with a polar solvent like water. Since ionic compounds usually dissociate into ions in water, we can rule out an ionic bond.
Does not melt under a Bunsen flame: This indicates that the substance does not undergo a phase change from solid to liquid when exposed to high temperatures. Most metals have high melting points, so we can exclude a metallic bond.
Does not conduct as a solid: This suggests that the substance does not have free charges (such as ions or delocalized electrons) that can move and conduct electricity. Ionic compounds and metals are known for their ability to conduct electricity in the solid state.
Considering all these properties, it is likely that the substance has a covalent bond. Covalent bonds involve sharing of electrons between atoms, leading to the formation of molecules or giant covalent structures. Substances with covalent bonds often have properties such as being shiny, insoluble in water, not melting under a Bunsen flame, and not conducting electricity as a solid.