Why are Ionic Hydrides more denser?

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In summary, ionic hydrides have more density than corresponding metals due to the low density of the metals in the I or II group, which leave their valence electrons and become low radius ions in the ionic compound. Additionally, the H- ion also has a low radius, contributing to the overall density of the compound.
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zorro
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Why do ionic hydrides have more density than the corresponding metals?
I know that interstitial hydrides have lower density than the corresponding metals from which they were formed as the crystal lattice expands due to inclusion of H2. What makes ionic hydrides more denser then?
 
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Abdul Quadeer said:
Why do ionic hydrides have more density than the corresponding metals?
I know that interstitial hydrides have lower density than the corresponding metals from which they were formed as the crystal lattice expands due to inclusion of H2. What makes ionic hydrides more denser then?
It depends on which metals. Ionic hydrides are formed with metals of the I or II group, usually, and these metals have a low density because of their great metallic radius (at similar atomic weight), compared with other metals. In a ionic compound, these metals leave their valence electrons becaming low radius ions. Added with the fact that H- ion has a low radius too...
 
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Thanks lightarrow!
 

1. Why are ionic hydrides more dense than covalent hydrides?

Ionic hydrides, such as sodium hydride (NaH) and magnesium hydride (MgH2), are more dense than covalent hydrides because they have a stronger ionic bond between the metal cation and the hydride anion. This strong bond causes the ions to pack tightly together, resulting in a higher density.

2. How does the size of the metal cation affect the density of ionic hydrides?

The size of the metal cation can have a significant impact on the density of ionic hydrides. As the size of the cation increases, the distance between the ions also increases, resulting in a lower density. This is because there is more empty space between the ions, making them less tightly packed.

3. What role does the electronegativity of the metal cation play in the density of ionic hydrides?

The electronegativity of the metal cation can also affect the density of ionic hydrides. A higher electronegativity means the cation has a greater attraction for electrons, which can pull the hydride anions closer and result in a higher density. Conversely, a lower electronegativity may result in a weaker bond and a lower density.

4. Why do ionic hydrides have higher melting and boiling points compared to covalent hydrides?

The strong ionic bond in ionic hydrides also contributes to their higher melting and boiling points. The strong attraction between the oppositely charged ions makes it more difficult to separate them and convert the solid into a liquid or gas, resulting in higher melting and boiling points.

5. How do the physical properties of ionic hydrides make them useful in various industries?

Due to their high density, melting and boiling points, and strong ionic bond, ionic hydrides have a wide range of applications in industries such as metallurgy, energy storage, and hydrogen fuel cells. They are also used as reducing agents in organic synthesis and as catalysts in various chemical reactions.

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