Confused About Van der Waals' & Ionic Solids

In summary, the conversation discusses the composition of graphite and salt and the forces that hold their particles together. It is suggested that van der Waals' forces are responsible for holding layers of graphite together, while Coulomb forces dominate in the case of salt. The second part of the conversation asks for the variation of potential between particles, with a suggested value of 6 for van der Waals' forces and 1 for ionic forces.
  • #1
geoffreythelm
11
0

Homework Statement




Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I think Graphite is a Van der Waals' Solid and, er, salt would be an ionic.
But I really don't have much of a clue about what the second part is going on about!

Thanks! :)
 

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  • #2
Can't see the attachment yet. While Coulomb interaction dominate the interplay between electrons in graphite, I do believe the force holding the layers together could be referred to as van der Waals.
 
  • #3
The second part is asking you for the variation of potential (attractive term) with respect to the distance between the particles, so for the van der Waals' forces, the Lennard-Jones potential applies, while for the ionic forces, the Coulomb potential applies. This would give [tex]\beta[/tex] as 6 for the former and 1 for the latter.
 

1. What are Van der Waals' and Ionic Solids?

Van der Waals' solids and ionic solids are two types of solid structures that are formed by different types of bonding between atoms or molecules. Van der Waals' solids are held together by weak intermolecular forces, while ionic solids are held together by strong electrostatic attractions between positively and negatively charged ions.

2. How do Van der Waals' and Ionic Solids differ in terms of structure?

Van der Waals' solids have a relatively simple structure, with atoms or molecules arranged in a regular pattern but not bonded together. Ionic solids, on the other hand, have a more complex crystal lattice structure, with ions arranged in a repeating pattern and held together by strong ionic bonds.

3. What properties do Van der Waals' and Ionic Solids exhibit?

Van der Waals' solids are typically soft, have low melting and boiling points, and are poor conductors of heat and electricity. Ionic solids, on the other hand, are usually hard, have high melting and boiling points, and are good conductors of heat and electricity when molten or dissolved in water.

4. How are Van der Waals' and Ionic Solids used in everyday life?

Van der Waals' solids are commonly used as lubricants, coatings, and adhesives due to their low melting points and ability to reduce friction. Ionic solids are used in a variety of applications, from table salt and baking soda in cooking to the production of ceramics and electronic components.

5. Can Van der Waals' and Ionic Solids form compounds with each other?

Yes, Van der Waals' and Ionic Solids can form compounds with each other, known as mixed solids. These compounds may have properties that are a combination of the two types of solids, depending on the ratio of Van der Waals' and ionic bonding present.

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