Answer to Question #299609 in General Chemistry for mela

Question

1.Explain why ice,which is a crystalline solid,has a melting temperature of 0^degree C.whereas butter,which is an amorphous solid,softens over a range of temperatures.

2.Why is the arrangement of the constituent atoms or molecules more important in determining the properties of a solid than a liquid or a gas?

Answer 1

Part (1)

Ice has regular arrangement of constituent particles. Its structure is stabilized by hydrogen bonds, so it posses a sharp melting point.

Bonds in Butter are made of van- der -wal forces of various strengths and therefore it has a broad melting point.

Part (ii)

Due to persistent long range order of solids, the arrangement of atoms or molecules is more important in determining their properties than in liquids or gases.