Answer: an ionic electrolyte.
- A a purely covalent liquid
- B an ionic electrolyte
- C a solid metallic conductor
- D a chemically inert gas
Correct answer: B. an ionic electrolyte
Explanation: In water AlCl₃ ionises to give hydrated Al³⁺ and Cl⁻ ions, so the solution conducts electricity.
Diamond's rigid 3D tetrahedral network makes it the hardest natural material, while graphite's flat hexagonal sheets are held together only by weak forces, letting them slide past each other (used as a lubricant and in pencils).
Concept context
Covers the Boron family (Group 13: B, Al) and the Carbon family (Group 14: C, Si, Ge, Sn, Pb). Key topics include Lewis acid behaviour of BF₃, borax bead test, silicates, silicones, allotropes of carbon, and trends in properties down the group.