Arrange the compounds according to the magnitudes of their lattice energies based on the relative ion charges and sizes.

Question

The charges and sizes of the ions in an ionic compound affect the strength of the electrostatic interaction between the ions and thus the strength of the lattice energy of the ionic compound. Arrange the compounds according to the magnitudes of their lattice energies based on the relative ion charges and sizes.

SrO

RbF

SrF2

CsI

Answer 1

Greater charge, smaller size go with higher lattice energies (stronger bonds - harder to break)

(fit is also a factor for lattices)

Smallest energy to largest:

CsI (Larger and +/- 1), RbF (Smaller and +/- 1) SrF₂ (Smaller and +2,-1), SrO (O^- ion larger than F^- ion and +/-2)

Charge dominates.

Please consider a tutor. Take care.