Using principles of structure and bonding, explain why sulfur has a higher melting point than phosphorus

Sulfur, which is naturally S8 has more electrons than Phosphorus, which is naturally P4. Therefore the Van der Waals between molecules is stronger in Sulfur than it is in Phosphorus, so more energy is required to break the bonds in Sulfur.

DS
Answered by Dalvin S. Chemistry tutor

31191 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain how a buffer solution controls pH


Explain the trend in the first ionisation energies of the group 1 elements


An unknown gas from a reaction is contained in a 2 litre beaker, at standard atmospheric pressure and a Temperature of 25 Celsius. Calculate the number of moles of the gas.


What is the mechanism for nucleophilic addition reactions at carbonyls?


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning