In terms of structure and bonding explain why the boiling point of bromine is different from that of magnesium

Bromine exists as a simple molecular structure- the Br2 molecules are held together using Van der Waals forces. Whereas Magnesium is a metal and is held together using metallic bonding. Metalic bonding constists of tighly packed positive ions surrounded by a sea of delocalised electrons and is therefore very strong. Van der Waal forces are weak. Melting is the process where a solid becomes a liquid, this means bonds must be broken. A larger amount of energy is needed to break Metallic bonds as they are stronger than Van der Waals. Therefore Magnesium has a higher melting point that Bromine.

Answered by Mubeena A. Chemistry tutor

20431 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

How does the reactivity of group 2 elements change down the group, and what is the cause of this trend?


When propanal is reacted with potassium cyanide under weakly acidic conditions the resulting mixture does not rotate plane polarised light. Explain this observation.


Ethanol can be made from the reaction between ethene and water. The reaction is exothermic and occurs at a high temperature. Describe and explain the effect of raising the temperature on the rate of achievement of equilibrium and the equilibrium yield.


How can aldehydes and ketones be distinguished?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences