Giant covalent structures
What Giant covalent structures means in Combined Science GCSE, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of Giant covalent structures
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Reference: AQA
Structures in which every atom is joined to its neighbours by strong covalent bonds throughout the whole solid, such as diamond and silicon dioxide.
Have atoms arranged in a rigid 3D lattice held by strong covalent bonds, making them very hard with high melting points.
Solids in which all of the atoms are linked to other atoms by strong covalent bonds, giving very high melting points.
Graphite is a giant covalent structure of carbon, and each layer is a giant covalent structure.
Topics that use Giant covalent structures
- Covalent bonding (AQA GCSE)
- Giant covalent structures (AQA GCSE)
- Graphite (AQA GCSE)
- Key ideas (AQA GCSE)
Related terms
- Structure-property relationships
- Dot-and-cross diagrams
- Electrical conductivity
- Action at a distance
- Activation energy
- Active site
- Adaptation
- Anaerobic respiration
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