How to distinguish between an insoluble ionic compound and an insoluble metallic compound? [closed]








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Insoluble ionic compounds and insoluble metallic compounds could both have high melting points, insolubility, and no conductivity in water. Is there a way to distinguish between the two in a laboratory setting?




As [solids](https://chemistry.tutorvista.com/physical-chemistry/properties-of-metallic-bonds.html), metals...


1. conduct heat and electricity well (ionic solids do not)
2. are malleable and ductile (ionic solids are not)
3. have lower melting points and boiling points than ionic solids


Test these properties by...


1. applying heat and a thermometer; using a conductivity apparatus (larger/chunk samples)
2. hit the sample with a hammer as MaxW suggested (larger/chunk samples)
3. test for relative melting/boiling points by applying equal amounts of heat (granular samples)


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