In the solid-state structure of sodium chloride, the closest distance between the centers of ions is observed ________
A)between adjacent sodium ions on the edge of the unit cell.
B)between adjacent chloride ions on the edge of the unit cell.
C)between adjacent sodium ions on the face and one corner of the unit cell.
D)between adjacent chloride ions on the face and one corner of the unit cell.
E)between all adjacent sodium and chloride ions.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In the solid-state structure of sodium chloride (NaCl), each sodium ion is surrounded by six chloride ions and each chloride ion is surrounded by six sodium ions in an octahedral geometry. This arrangement is consistent throughout the crystal, meaning the closest distance between the centers of ions is observed between all adjacent sodium and chloride ions, reflecting the highly symmetrical and uniform nature of the NaCl crystal structure.

In the Solid-State Structure of Sodium Chloride, the Closest Distance