lattice energy

Lattice energy is the measure of the energy needed to break apart an ionic solid into its individual ions in the gas phase. It reflects the strength of the electrostatic attraction between positively and negatively charged ions in the crystal structure. A higher lattice energy indicates a more stable, tightly bound ionic compound. Factors like the ions’ size and charge influence lattice energy: smaller and more highly charged ions create stronger attractions, resulting in higher lattice energy. This concept helps explain the stability and melting points of ionic compounds, with greater lattice energy correlating to higher melting points and stability.