Hydrogen chloride (HCl) has a melting point of -114.2 °C. Sodium chloride (NaCl) has a melting point of 801 °C. Explain in terms of structure and bonding why these substances have such different melting points?

Hydrogen chloride has a simple molecular structure. The atoms within the molecule are held together by strong covalent bonds. However, for simple covalent molecules to melt only the weak intermolecular forces need to be overcome (not the strong covalent bonds). This requires very little energy and thus the melting point is low.
Sodium chloride is a giant ionic lattice. To melt the substance the strong electrostatic attractions between oppositely charged ions (ionic bonds) must be overcome. This requires large amounts of energy and thus the melting point is high.

AJ
Answered by Alexander J. Chemistry tutor

32470 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

A colourless liquid is tested with silver nitrate solution and produces a white precipitate and produces a brick red flame test result. Name the compound found in the colourless liquid


What is the mass (g) of 0.25mols of NaCl?


What is the electron configuration of Oxygen? Give it in terms of shells and subshells.


What is the difference between and Alkane and an Alkene


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