why are the melting points of ionic compounds higher than covalent

Answer 1

When force of attraction between ions/molecules are higher melting point will be high. There is strong electrostatic force of attraction between ions which is stronger than the force between covalent molecules. An immense amount of energy is needed to separate ionic compounds and melt them whereas in covalent compounds the molecules of the compound are held together by weak Van der Waal forces of attraction therefore less energy is required to break the bonds and let them melt. Hence melting point is high for ionic substance.