Giant Ionic Structures or Lattices

Ionic compounds form large 3D structures called giant ionic lattices, not individual molecules. Sodium chloride is an example where sodium and chloride ions are arranged in a repeating 3D pattern. The strong electrostatic attractions between ions give ionic compounds high melting points and brittleness. When force is applied, the lattice structure is disrupted, causing like charges to repel and the structure to break. This explains why ionic compounds are brittle. Overall, ionic compounds are characterized by their giant ionic lattice structure and strong electrostatic attractions.

Describe the arrangement of sodium and chloride ions in a giant ionic lattice.

Why are ionic compounds considered brittle?