The following are the general properties of ionic compounds:
Physical nature:
(a Ionic compounds are solids and are somewhat hard because of the strong force of attraction between the positive and negative ions.
(b These compounds are generally brittle.
Melting and boiling points: Ionic compounds have high melting and boiling points. This is because a considerable amount of energy is required to break the strong inter- ionic attraction.
Solubility: These compounds are generally soluble in water and insoluble in solvents such as kerosene, petrol etc.
Conduction of electricity: Ionic compounds in the solid state do not conduct electricity because movement of ions in the solid is not possible due to their rigid structure. But, ionic compounds conduct electricity in the molten state.
