Covalent Molecular vs Network: Key Differences Explained
Covalent molecular describes discrete molecules held together by weak intermolecular forces, while covalent network forms an endless 3-D lattice of strong covalent bonds.
People confuse them because both share “covalent,” yet one melts in your hand (paraffin wax) and the other survives lava (diamond). Mixing them leads to shattered cookware and failed science fair volcanoes.
Key Differences
Molecular solids have low melting points, are soft, and often dissolve in water; network solids are extremely hard, insoluble, and conduct or insulate depending on structure.
Examples and Daily Life
Sugar, dry ice, and candle wax are molecular; diamond, silicon chips, and glass are network. Your phone screen survives scratches thanks to a covalent network glass lattice.
Can I melt diamond on a stove?
No—diamond’s network requires ~3,550 °C, far beyond any kitchen appliance.
Why does sugar melt faster than salt?
Sugar is molecular, so weaker forces yield a lower melting point than salt’s ionic lattice.