Hydrogen chloride (HCl) has a melting point of -114.2 °C. Sodium chloride (NaCl) has a melting point of 801 °C. Explain in terms of structure and bonding why these substances have such different melting points?

Hydrogen chloride has a simple molecular structure. The atoms within the molecule are held together by strong covalent bonds. However, for simple covalent molecules to melt only the weak intermolecular forces need to be overcome (not the strong covalent bonds). This requires very little energy and thus the melting point is low.
Sodium chloride is a giant ionic lattice. To melt the substance the strong electrostatic attractions between oppositely charged ions (ionic bonds) must be overcome. This requires large amounts of energy and thus the melting point is high.

AJ
Answered by Alexander J. Chemistry tutor

33494 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Magnesium reacts with hydrochloric acid to form a salt. What volume of 0.2dm(-3) HCL is required to react with 4g of Magnesium? Give answer in cm(3).


What is ionic bonding?


Explain why chlorine (Cl2) is a gas at room temperature, but sodium chloride (NaCl) is a solid at room temperature.


Explain how a compound such as Magnesium Oxide has a high melting point and conducts electricity when molten


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning