Explain why chlorine (Cl2) is a gas at room temperature, but sodium chloride (NaCl) is a solid at room temperature.

The melting/boiling point of a substance determines what state of matter it takes at a certain temperature.

In Cl2 there are covalent bonds between the atoms forming simple molecules. There are weak attractions between molecules of Cl2 meaning little energy is needed to break these forces of attraction and therefore Cl2 has a low boiling point. 

NaCl on the other hand has strong electrostatic forces of attraction between the positvely charged Na ion and the negatively charged Cl ion. NaCl forms a giant ionic lattice that requires high amounts of energy to break and therefore has a high melting point. 

LW
Answered by Lily W. Chemistry tutor

170757 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Crude oil is a fossil fuel - what is a fossil fuel and how is crude oil separated into its fractions?


Why are alkanes saturated and alkenes unsaturated?


Why is magnesium positioned in Group 2 of the periodic table?


Describe the differences in molecular structure between graphite and diamond, and use this to explain their differing properties.


We're here to help

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

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences