A fire proof safe contains an ionic compound, CaCO3(s), between the inside and the outside layers of metal. The particles of this compound do not respond to the heat released by a fire the same way the particles in metal do. Explain how these different responses to heat are due to the different forms of chemical bonds in these materials. Describe how the presence of the CaCO3(s) in the safe’s construction protects the contents against damage from the heat
The different responses to heat exhibited by the CaCO3(s) and metal in the fire proof safe are due to the different forms of chemical bonds present in each material.
The metal in the safe consists of metallic bonds, where metal atoms are held together by a sea of delocalized electrons. When exposed to heat, metallic bonds allow the metal atoms to move freely and vibrate, resulting in the metal expanding and potentially deforming under high temperatures.
On the other hand, CaCO3(s) consists of ionic bonds, where calcium ions (Ca2+) are attracted to carbonate ions (CO3 2-) through electrostatic forces. When exposed to heat, ionic compounds like CaCO3(s) do not have the same freedom of movement as metal atoms. Instead, the strong electrostatic forces between the ions prevent significant movement or deformation, making the compound more resistant to heat.
By placing CaCO3(s) between the metal layers of the safe, the compound acts as a heat-resistant barrier that shields the contents inside the safe from the high temperatures of a fire. The CaCO3(s) absorbs and dissipates much of the heat, preventing it from reaching the interior of the safe where valuable or sensitive items are stored. This protection ensures that the contents remain safe and undamaged even in the event of a fire.