Explain, in terms of its structure and bonding, why magnesium oxide has a very high melting point (4).

Magnesium oxide has a giant 3D lattice structure formed by strong electrostatic forces of attraction between the positively charged magnesium ions and the negatively charged oxygen ions. These ionic bonds require a lot of energy to overcome, and therefore the substance has a high melting point.

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Answered by Luke H. Chemistry tutor

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