Lattice energy Original Scenario-Based Practice

Questions

1. 1.

   A planetary exploration probe evaluates four crystalline ionic solids—$\text{NaCl}$, $\text{NaF}$, $\text{CaO}$, and $\text{MgO}$—collected from an extreme geothermal rift to construct a thermal barrier capable of resisting crystal lattice breakdown. Based on the periodic trends and physical principles governing lattice energy, which of these substances has the greatest lattice energy?

   • A) $\text{NaCl}$, because larger ionic radii facilitate stronger dispersion stabilization across the crystal plane.
   • B) $\text{CaO}$, because its divalent ions have greater interionic distances that maximize overall ionic polarization.
   • C) $\text{MgO}$, because its constituent ions carry higher charges ($+2$ and $-2$) and have smaller ionic radii than those in $\text{CaO}$, maximizing coulombic attraction.
   • D) $\text{NaF}$, because monovalent ions achieve a tighter packing geometry that overrides ion charge effects.

Answers and step-by-step solutions appear after you finish the test.