Lattice Energy

Definition

The energy that must be paid to dismantle a solid crystal into separated ions, arising from the electrostatic stability of the crystal lattice.

Ionic solids exist because opposite charges stabilize one another in a low-energy arrangement, and breaking that arrangement requires energy. Strong electrostatic attractions, especially between highly charged, tightly packed ions, have a higher cost of entry. The tighter the grid, the more it costs to break in, which is why calcium carbonate resists dissolution more than sodium chloride.

Related concepts

Gibbs Free Energy · Hydration Energy · Ionic Solids

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Part of The Blueprint of Water · 🔥 thermodynamics