Question

Which of the following shows the highest lattice energy?
(1) RbF (2) CsF (3) NaF (4) KF

Answer 1

Option c is the correct answer......

Answer 2

Answer: Option (3) is the correct answer.

Explanation:

Lattice energy is defined as the energy necessary to break the crystal lattice of an ionic solid into gaseous atoms or ions.

Hence, smaller is the size of combining atoms more strongly they will be attached to each other. This means that there will be strong intermolecular forces of attraction between the combining atoms.

As a result, to break the crystal lattice of such a compound we have to provide high heat.

Hence, out of the given options NaF contains atoms of smallest size.

Thus, we can conclude that NaF shows the highest lattice energy.