Question

Solid carbon dioxide, CO₂, is similar to solid iodine, I₂, in its structure and properties. Carbon is in Group 14. Silica, SiO₂, is a Group 14 compound. Which statement about solid CO₂ and solid SiO₂ is correct?

A. Both solids exist in a lattice structure.
B. Both solids have a simple molecular structure.
C. Both solids have atoms joined by single covalent bonds.
D. Both solids change spontaneously to gas at______

Answer 1

Solid carbon dioxide and solid silicon dioxide have different structures and properties. Both have atoms joined by single covalent bonds.

Step-by-step explanation:

Both solid carbon dioxide (CO2) and solid silicon dioxide (SiO2) have different structures and properties. Solid CO2 exists as discrete molecules held together by weak intermolecular forces, while solid SiO2 has a three-dimensional network structure formed by covalent bonds between silicon and oxygen atoms. Therefore, statement A is incorrect as both solids have different structures.

Statement B is also incorrect as solid CO2 has a molecular structure, while solid SiO2 is a covalent network solid.

Statement C is correct. Both solids have atoms joined by single covalent bonds. In solid CO2, the carbon atom forms double bonds with two oxygen atoms, while in solid SiO2, the silicon atom forms four single bonds with oxygen atoms.

Statement D is not provided in the question.