Cambridge Secondary (7-9). Stage 9. Science. Learner's Book - Unit 2: Properties of materials - Question 78

Use this table to help answer questions 5–9.

| Substance | Melting point in °C | Boiling point in °C |
|---|---:|---:|
| sodium chloride | 801 | 1413 |
| methane | −182 | −161 |
| magnesium chloride | 714 | 1412 |
| ammonia | −77 | −34 |
| calcium oxide | 2613 | 2850 |
| chlorine | −101 | −34.6 |
| water | 0 | 100 |

Is magnesium chloride an ionic compound or a simple molecule with covalent bonds? Give reasons for your answer.