Question:

Which of the following solids is not a molecular solid?

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Network covalent solids like \(SiO_2\) and diamond contain strong covalent bonds throughout the lattice, unlike molecular solids which contain discrete molecules.
Updated On: Jun 22, 2026
  • \(HCl\)
  • \(H_2O\)
  • \(CCl_4\)
  • \(SiO_2\)
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understand molecular solids.
Molecular solids are solids in which constituent particles are molecules held together by intermolecular forces such as: van der Waals forces, dipole-dipole forces or hydrogen bonding These solids generally have low melting and boiling points.

Step 2: Analyze the given substances.

\(HCl\):
Solid \(HCl\) consists of discrete \(HCl\) molecules held together by intermolecular forces. Hence, it is a molecular solid.

\(H_2O\):
Ice consists of \(H_2O\) molecules held together by hydrogen bonding. Therefore, it is a molecular solid.

\(CCl_4\):
Solid carbon tetrachloride contains individual \(CCl_4\) molecules held together by weak van der Waals forces. Thus, it is also a molecular solid.

\(SiO_2\):
Silicon dioxide has a giant covalent network structure in which atoms are connected through strong covalent bonds throughout the crystal lattice. It does not contain discrete molecules.
Hence, \(SiO_2\) is a covalent network solid and not a molecular solid.

Step 3: Final conclusion.
Therefore, the solid which is not a molecular solid is \[ \boxed{SiO_2} \]
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