Work through the list without notes. If you cannot do a statement, follow its link, then come back. Guide = study guide; Practice = practice questions.
Understanding
- I can explain why vapor pressure and boiling point depend directly on the strength of interparticle forces. (Guide: “Boiling point and vapor pressure”; Practice Q3)
- I can explain why melting point is a less reliable guide, because melting only rearranges particles. (Guide: “Melting point is more subtle”; Practice Q7)
- I can describe the particles and the interactions in ionic, covalent network, molecular and metallic solids. (Guide: Figure 1 and summary table)
- I can explain how noncovalent interactions set the shape, and so the properties, of large biomolecules and polymers. (Guide: “Large molecules and polymers”; Practice Q6)
Skills
- I can draw a particulate model that shows several interacting particles and separates covalent bonds from intermolecular forces. (Guide: “Drawing interacting particles”; Practice Q5)
- I can classify an unknown solid from melting point, conductivity, solubility and mechanical behaviour. (Guide: Worked example 1; Practice Q1)
- I can explain why ionic solids are brittle and conduct only when molten or dissolved. (Guide: “Ionic solids”)
- I can explain why diamond is hard but graphite is soft. (Guide: Figure 2; Practice Q2)
- I can explain conductivity, malleability and ductility in metals, and how an interstitial alloy changes them. (Guide: “Metallic solids”; Practice Q4)
Reasoning
- I can explain a large difference in melting point by identifying the type of solid, as for SiO₂ and CO₂. (Guide: Worked example 2)
- I can evaluate a claim that uses melting points as evidence, and use boiling points instead. (Guide: Worked example 3; Practice Q7)
All ticked? Move on to Topic 3.3, Solids, Liquids and Gases, or return to the course roadmap.