Question

Potassium sulphate is:

• A. Ionic solid
• B. Metallic solid
• C. Covalent solid
• D. Molecular solid

Hint:

Ionic solids are formed by strong electrostatic forces between cations and anions; they have high melting points and conduct electricity in molten state.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Nature of potassium sulphate.
Potassium sulphate (K$_2$SO$_4$) is composed of potassium cations (K$^+$) and sulphate anions (SO$_4^{2-}$). These oppositely charged ions are held together by strong electrostatic forces of attraction.

Step 2: Classify the solid.
- Ionic solids consist of cations and anions arranged in a lattice structure.
- Metallic solids consist of metal atoms with delocalized electrons.
- Covalent solids consist of atoms held together by covalent bonds in a network structure.
- Molecular solids consist of molecules held by weak van der Waals forces or hydrogen bonding.

Step 3: Conclusion.
Since K$_2$SO$_4$ is made up of ions and held together by ionic bonds, it is classified as an ionic solid.

Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{(A) Ionic solid}} \]