Sorting Lattice Energies: KF, MgS, RbI

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the order of decreasing magnitude of lattice energy for the ionic compounds KF, MgS, and RbI. The key factors influencing lattice energy include the charges of the ions and their ionic radii, based on Coulomb's law. Magnesium sulfide (MgS) exhibits the highest lattice energy due to the greater charges of Mg²⁺ and S²⁻ ions compared to K⁺ and F⁻ in KF, and Rb⁺ and I⁻ in RbI, which have lower charges. Therefore, the correct order is MgS > KF > RbI.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Coulomb's law and its application to ionic compounds
  • Knowledge of ionic charges for common ions
  • Familiarity with ionic radii and their impact on lattice energy
  • Basic principles of lattice energy calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the specific lattice energy values for KF, MgS, and RbI
  • Study the relationship between ionic charge and lattice energy
  • Explore the concept of ionic radii and how they affect lattice stability
  • Learn about the Born-Lande equation for calculating lattice energy
USEFUL FOR

Chemistry students, educators, and anyone studying ionic compounds and their properties, particularly in the context of lattice energy calculations.

cdoss
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Homework Statement


Place the following in order of decreasing magnitude of lattice energy.

KF, MgS, RbI

I'm not really sure how to do this without looking up the lattice energy values with each. And I don't think that is what our teacher wants us to do
 
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Think just in terms of charges and radii of the ions. This is about simple Coulomb forces.
 

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