Based on lattice energy and other considerations which one of the following alkali metal chlorides is expected to have the highest melting point?
- A
- B
- C
- D
Solution & Step-by-step Explanation
Melting point depends on lattice energy and ionic character:: Although it has the highest lattice energy (due to small size of ), it has significant covalent character (Fajans' rule) which lowers its melting point.: It is primarily ionic and has a very high lattice energy.As we move from to , the lattice energy decreases because the size of the cation increases, leading to a decrease in melting point.Thus, has the highest melting point among the listed halides.