In terms of structure and bonding explain why the boiling point of bromine is different from that of magnesium

Bromine exists as a simple molecular structure- the Br2 molecules are held together using Van der Waals forces. Whereas Magnesium is a metal and is held together using metallic bonding. Metalic bonding constists of tighly packed positive ions surrounded by a sea of delocalised electrons and is therefore very strong. Van der Waal forces are weak. Melting is the process where a solid becomes a liquid, this means bonds must be broken. A larger amount of energy is needed to break Metallic bonds as they are stronger than Van der Waals. Therefore Magnesium has a higher melting point that Bromine.

MA
Answered by Mubeena A. Chemistry tutor

22346 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do you determine the shape of molecule?


What is nucleophile?


What's the difference between an electrophile and a nucleophile?


25cm^3 of 0.1M NaOH is reacted with 0.01M HCl until the equivalence point is reached. What volume of HCl was required to be added?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning