An electrolytic cell consists of
$(i)$ positively charged cathode
$(ii)$ negatively charged anode
$(iii)$ positively charged anode
$(iv)$ negatively charged cathode

An element $X$ (atomic number $17$) reacts with an element $Y$ (atomic number $20$) to form a divalent halide.
$(a)$ Where in the periodic table are elements $X$ and $Y$ placed?
$(b)$ Classify $X$ and $Y$ as metal$(s)$,non-metal$(s)$,or metalloid$(s)$.

Give reasons for the following:
$(i)$ Ionic compounds have high melting and boiling points.
$(ii)$ Ionic compounds are soluble in water.
$(iii)$ Ionic compounds are solid and somewhat hard.
$(iv)$ Ionic compounds conduct electricity in the molten state.
$(v)$ Metals have a tendency to lose electrons.

An element reacts with oxygen to give a compound with a high melting point. This compound is also soluble in water. The element is likely to be

Why do ionic compounds have high melting points?

Element $X$ forms a chloride with the formula $XCl_2$,which is a solid with a high melting point. $X$ would most likely be in the same group of the Periodic Table as