Question

Which is the reason that ionic compounds are brittle?

A.
The bonds between the anions and cations are weak and therefore easily broken.

B.
A strong repulsive force is created when cations suddenly align.

C.
They involve positive metal ions in a sea of delocalized electrons.

D.
They share electrons, which makes the bond brittle.

Answer 1

Answer:

D

Explanation:

Ionic solids are very hard and brittle. Hard due to the strong bonds. Brittle since when distorted like charged ions move closer to each other and the strong electrostatic repulsions shatter the crystal. Ionic solids cannot conduct electricity.