Question

Minerals composed predominantly of which of the following bond types tend to be most soluble in water?

1) covalent
2) metallic
3) ionic
4) van der Waals
5) mineral solubility does not depend on bond type

Answer 1

Ionic bonded minerals are most soluble in water because water can stabilize the ions that form upon dissolution of these compounds.

Step-by-step explanation:

Minerals composed predominantly of ionic bonds tend to be most soluble in water. This is because ionic compounds typically dissociate into ions when they dissolve, which water can easily stabilize due to its polar nature. On the other hand, covalent, metallic, and van der Waals bonded substances have different solubility characteristics. Ionic compounds are generally quite soluble in water, whereas the solubility of other types of compounds varies and is less straightforward.