Question

Write notes on the characteristics of covalent compounds.

Answer 1

1. Physical state: Depending on the force of attraction between covalent molecules the bond may be weaker or stronger. Thus covalent compounds exist in gaseous, liquid, and solid forms. Eg. Oxygen-gas; Water-liquid: Diamond-solid.
2. Electrical conductivity: Covalent compounds do not contain charged particles (ions), so they are bad conductors of electricity.
3. Melting point: Except few covalent compounds (Diamond, Silicon carbide), they have relatively low melting points compared to Ionic compounds.
4. Solubility: Covalent compounds are readily soluble in non-polar solvents like benzene (C₆H₆), and carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄). They are insoluble in polar solvents like water.
5. Hardness and brittleness: Covalent compounds are neither hard nor brittle. But they are soft and waxy.
6. Reactions: Covalent compounds undergo molecular reactions in solutions and these reactions are slow.