Which compound should have the largest lattice energy? SrI2. CaCl2. NaI. MgO. KF.

1 Answer
Mar 17, 2018

Well, at a guess, I would plump for #MgO#...

Explanation:

Lattice energy depends on two parameters: (i) the size of the ion; and (ii) the charge on the ion...

Why? Well, to a first approx. the electrostatic interaction depends on old Coulomb's law...and inverse square law. And clearly, those ions that are smaller will have GREATER electrostatic interaction....because of the #1/r^2# parameter...

And also since the electrostatic interaction CLEARLY also depends on the charge of the individual ions...we would choose the #MgO# salt, over #CaCl_2#...