MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #1740

Magnesium oxide (MgO) has a much higher lattice energy than Sodium chloride (NaCl). This difference is best explained by:

MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #1740

  1. Question 1

    Q1. Magnesium oxide (MgO) has a much higher lattice energy than Sodium chloride (NaCl). This difference is best explained by:

    • A) MgO having a larger ionic radius
    • B) Higher charges on Magnesium and Oxide ions
    • C) NaCl having a more stable crystal structure
    • D) Lower electronegativity of Sodium

    Answer: Higher charges on Magnesium and Oxide ions

    Explanation: Higher charges (+2/-2) result in stronger electrostatic attraction. Option C fails because NaCl has lower charges (+1/-1), leading to lower energy.