Question detail
During the melting of a small molecular substance, what happens to the covalent bonds within the molecules?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
How bonding and structure are related to the properties of substances
Question
During the melting of a small molecular substance, what happens to the covalent bonds within the molecules?
Answer
The covalent bonds inside the molecules remain intact during melting. Instead, it is the weak intermolecular forces between the molecules that are overcome, allowing the substance to change from solid to liquid.
Explanation
This question tests the understanding of the distinction between covalent bonds and intermolecular forces, focusing on the behavior of small molecular substances during a state change. A strong answer clearly differentiates the two types of bonds and explains the process of melting.
Common mistake
Covalent Bonds Misunderstanding
Students often think that covalent bonds are broken when small molecular substances melt or boil.
Students should understand that during melting or boiling, it is the weak intermolecular forces that are overcome, not the covalent bonds within the molecules.
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