STUDENT SPACE · TOPIC 7
Giant covalent structures and metals
Relate bonding and structure to the properties and uses of diamond, graphite, silica and metals.
The essentials
- Diamond has four covalent bonds per carbon in a giant network. Graphite has three per carbon in layers.
- Graphite layers can slide because the forces between layers are weak. Delocalised electrons carry charge along the layers.
- SiO₂ has a giant covalent network. Metals contain positive ions attracted to delocalised electrons, which carry charge. Metal ion layers can slide while attraction remains.
Key vocabulary
| English | Chinese |
|---|---|
| giant covalent | 巨型共价结构 |
| delocalised electron | 离域电子 |
| malleable | 可锻的 |
Quick practice
Why is SiO₂ a giant structure rather than a simple molecule?
Need a hint?
Look for a continuous network of bonds.
Check your reasoning after trying
Its covalent bonds extend through a continuous network, not separate SiO₂ molecules.
Use the matching chapter worksheet. Attempt independently, compare your reasoning with your partner, then bring unresolved questions to your teacher.