How do the physical and chemical properties of calcium iodide (CaI2) compare to carbon disulfide (CS2) and sodium fluoride (NaF)?

A.
CaI2 has properties that are more similar to NaF than CS2.
B.
CaI2 does not have any properties in common with CS2 or NaF.
C.
CaI2, CS2, and NaF have the same properties.
D.
CaI2 has properties that are more similar to CS2 than NaF.

1 answer

To answer this question, we need to understand the physical and chemical properties of calcium iodide (CaI2), carbon disulfide (CS2), and sodium fluoride (NaF).

  1. Calcium Iodide (CaI2):

    • It is an ionic compound formed from the calcium cation (Ca²⁺) and iodide anions (I⁻).
    • CaI2 typically has high melting and boiling points, is solid at room temperature, and is soluble in water.
    • It conducts electricity when dissolved in water due to the presence of ions.
  2. Sodium Fluoride (NaF):

    • It is also an ionic compound formed from the sodium cation (Na⁺) and fluoride anions (F⁻).
    • NaF shares similar properties with CaI2, including being solid at room temperature, having high melting and boiling points, and being soluble in water. It also conducts electricity when dissolved.
  3. Carbon Disulfide (CS2):

    • CS2 is a molecular compound consisting of carbon and sulfur atoms.
    • It is a liquid at room temperature with a lower melting point and boiling point compared to CaI2 and NaF.
    • CS2 is nonpolar, does not conduct electricity, and is not ionic. It is also largely insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents.

Given these comparisons:

  • CaI2 and NaF are both ionic compounds and have similar physical properties.
  • Both of these compounds (CaI2 and NaF) differ significantly from CS2, which is a molecular compound with very different properties.

Based on this analysis, the correct option is:

A. CaI2 has properties that are more similar to NaF than CS2.