The melting point of a solid is a measure of
- A. the mass of its particles
- B. the strength of the forces holding its particles together
- C. the size of its crystals
- D. its electrical conductivity
Explanation
Melting requires enough thermal energy to overcome the forces locking the particles in the lattice, so covalent network and ionic solids melt very high, metals vary widely and molecular solids melt low. Comparing melting points is therefore a quick way to infer the type of bonding in an unknown solid. Crystal size affects appearance but not the temperature at which melting occurs.
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