States of matter and properties

The idea

The three states are solid, liquid and gas, shown by state symbols (s), (l), (g) and (aq) for aqueous solution. The amount of energy needed to change state depends on the strength of the forces between particles. Ionic compounds have high melting points and conduct when melted or dissolved, as the ions can move. Small molecules have low melting points, because only weak intermolecular forces are overcome, and do not conduct.

1. Identify the structure: ionic, small molecule, giant covalent or metal.
2. Say which forces are broken on melting.
3. Link to conductivity: are there free charged particles?

Watch out Melting a small molecule breaks intermolecular forces, not the covalent bonds inside it.