Five research teams independently characterized unknown crystalline solids labeled W,…
CHEMISTRY · Multi-part · AP · Chemistry · Compound Structure and Properties · Compound Structure and Properties
Problem
Five research teams independently characterized unknown crystalline solids labeled W, X, Y, Z, and M. Selected experimental results are provided below.
(a) Assign a classification (ionic solid, covalent network solid, molecular solid, metallic solid, or alloy) to each of the five unknowns (W, X, Y, Z, and M).
(b) Construct a coherent argument, citing at least ONE experimental observation for EACH solid, that supports every classification you made in part (a).
(c) For two of the solids you classified, predict a macroscopic property NOT listed in the stimulus that would be consistent with their structures, and justify each prediction.
(d) Suppose subsequent analysis shows that W actually sublimes slowly at room temperature. Discuss how this additional observation might refine or alter your original classification, and propose one further experiment that could resolve any remaining ambiguity.