Question

Are network covalent bonds STRONGER than ionic bonds?

Answer 1

Network covalent bonds are generally stronger than ionic bonds. Of course, we are comparing apples with oranges.

Explanation:

Both network covalent solids, and ionic solids ARE non-molecular, and are therefore expected to have elevated melting points with respect to molecular species.

Let's compare the melting points of `NaCl` to `SiO_2`:

`"Melting point, NaCl"=801` `""^@C`

`"Melting point, silicon dioxide"=2950` `""^@C` (And, of course, quartz is network covalent).

And we could throw in another example:

`"Melting point,"` `Na_2O=1132` `""^@C`

And another:

`"Melting point,"` `CaF_2=1418` `""^@C`

This series at least demonstrates, that as the charge of the cation increases, the INTRAMOLECULAR ionic force becomes greater in magnitude, and this is manifested by the increased melting point.