Silicon carbide (SiC) is a

Options

A. Ionic solid
B. Molecular solid
C. Covalent solid
D. Metallic solid

Answer

To determine the nature of silicon carbide (SiC), we will analyze its bonding and structure step by step.

### Step 1: Identify the Composition of SiC
Silicon carbide consists of silicon (Si) and carbon (C) atoms. Both of these elements belong to Group 14 of the periodic table.

**Hint:** Look at the periodic table to identify the group of the elements involved.

### Step 2: Analyze the Bonding
Silicon and carbon both have four electrons in their outer shell. To achieve a stable electronic configuration, they share electrons rather than transferring them. This sharing of electrons leads to the formation of covalent bonds.

**Hint:** Remember that covalent bonds are formed by the sharing of electrons between atoms.

### Step 3: Determine the Structure
In silicon carbide, the silicon and carbon atoms are arranged in a tetrahedral geometry. Each silicon atom is covalently bonded to four carbon atoms, and each carbon atom is similarly bonded to four silicon atoms, creating a three-dimensional network.

**Hint:** Visualize the tetrahedral arrangement to understand how the atoms are connected.

### Step 4: Classify the Solid
Given that SiC forms a continuous network of covalent bonds throughout the structure, it is classified as a covalent solid. This means that it does not consist of discrete molecules held together by intermolecular forces, which is characteristic of molecular solids.

**Hint:** Distinguish between covalent solids (network structure) and molecular solids (discrete molecules).

### Step 5: Eliminate Other Options
- **Ionic Solid:** SiC does not consist of ions; it is formed by covalent bonds.
- **Metallic Solid:** SiC does not exhibit metallic bonding, as both silicon and carbon are non-metals.
- **Molecular Solid:** As established, SiC does not form discrete molecules.

**Hint:** Consider the characteristics of each type of solid to eliminate incorrect options.

### Conclusion
Silicon carbide (SiC) is classified as a **covalent solid** due to its network of covalent bonds between silicon and carbon atoms.

**Final Answer:** Covalent Solid (Option C)