Which of the following best describes covalent network solids?

• A. They are composed of ions held together by electrostatic forces.
• B. They consist of atoms connected by a continuous network of covalent bonds throughout the solid.
• C. They consist of metal atoms surrounded by a sea of delocalized electrons.
• D. They are made up of molecules held together by intermolecular forces.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of covalent network solids: These solids are composed of atoms bonded together in a continuous, extended network by covalent bonds.
2. Recall the types of solids: ionic solids (ions held by electrostatic forces), metallic solids (metal atoms with delocalized electrons), molecular solids (molecules held by intermolecular forces), and covalent network solids (atoms connected by covalent bonds).
3. Identify that covalent network solids do not consist of discrete molecules or ions, but rather a large lattice where each atom is covalently bonded to its neighbors.
4. Recognize that this continuous network of covalent bonds gives covalent network solids their characteristic properties, such as high melting points and hardness.
5. Conclude that the best description of covalent network solids is that they consist of atoms connected by a continuous network of covalent bonds throughout the solid.