Question

Which of the following is not a property of covalent compounds?

• A. They are generally insoluble in water
• B. They consist of molecules
• C. They exist as solids, liquids or gases
• D. The reactions between them are fast

Hint:

Molecular reactions (covalent) are slow because they are "transformational" (breaking and making bonds), while ionic reactions are "associational" (opposites attracting), which happens at the speed of mixing.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

1. Analyzing the Options:

• (A) Solubility: Covalent compounds are generally non-polar and thus insoluble in polar solvents like water, but soluble in organic solvents. (True property)

• (B) Constitution: They consist of discrete molecules held together by intermolecular forces, rather than a lattice of ions. (True property)

• (C) Physical State: Due to varied intermolecular strengths, they can be gases ($CH_4$), liquids ($H_2O$), or soft solids ($I_2$). (True property)

2. Why (D) is Incorrect: Chemical reactions between covalent compounds involve the

breaking of existing covalent bonds and the formation of new ones. This process requires significant activation energy and time. In contrast, ionic reactions involve simple collisions between ions in solution and are nearly instantaneous. Therefore, covalent reactions are typically

slow, making statement (D) the false property.