Ionic compounds are generally brittle because applying a mechanical stress causes layers o… — JAMB UTME

Ionic compounds are generally brittle because applying a mechanical stress causes layers of ions to shift, bringing ions of identical charge into alignment and causing strong electrostatic repulsion.

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True. Applying mechanical stress causes layers of an ionic lattice to shift, bringing like-charged ions into direct alignment; the immediate electrostatic repulsion forces the crystal planes apart, rendering ionic solids brittle.

The statement is true because mechanical stress displaces adjacent rows in an ionic lattice, shifting like-charged ions into alignment. The powerful electrostatic repulsion generated between identical charges forces the crystal layers apart, causing the ionic solid to shatter.

Step-by-Step Solution

Identify the arrangement of particles in a solid ionic lattice.

An ionic crystal consists of alternating positive cations and negative anions organized in a regular three-dimensional array held by electrostatic attraction.

Determining the initial alternating charge pattern is necessary to understand how movement alters interionic forces.

Analyze the structural shift caused by an applied mechanical force.

The force causes one layer of ions to slide past another by one atomic position.

Mechanical impact displaces crystal planes relative to each other.

Evaluate the net electrostatic forces after displacement.

Ions of identical charge (

+

and

+

, or

-

and

-

) are brought into direct alignment, creating powerful repulsive forces that shatter the lattice along cleavage planes.

Electrostatic repulsion between like charges overcomes binding attraction, explaining the characteristic brittleness of ionic solids.

Key Concept

Brittleness and Mechanical Cleavage of Ionic Lattice Structures

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