5.7.2 Physical Properties of Covalent Compounds

Covalent compounds can be divided into 2 types:

1. Simple molecular compound
2. Macromolecular compound

Simple Molecules

1. Most covalent compounds are made up of independent molecular units, as shown in figure above.
2. The attraction force between molecules is the weak Van der Waals’ force.

Properties of Simple Covalent Molecular Substances – Small Molecules!

1. The intermolecular force between the simple covalent molecules is very weak. Therefore, covalent compounds have low melting and boiling point.
2. They are also poor conductors of electricity because there are no free electrons or ions in any state to carry electric charge.
3. Most small molecules will dissolve in a solvent to form a solution.