Question

the lattice energy for MgCl2 is -2326 kj/mol, which is much higher than that for NaCl which has a lattice energy of -786 kj/mol. Why is this so? Give at least two contributing factors.

Answer 1

ionic charge
ionic radius

Answer 2

Can you explain to me why?

Answer 3

Mg^2+ is twice the charge of Na^+ so the effect is 4x as much. (2^2 = 4)
The Mg^2+ ion is smaller than the Na^+ and the closer the ions are togther the tougher it is to pull them apart.