Why is $$CO_2$$ a gas but $$SiO_2$$ a high-melting solid?

Question

Why is  $$CO_2$$  a gas but $$SiO_2$$  a high-melting solid?

Canvas Classes · Accepted Answer

Carbon forms stable $$p\pi-p\pi$$  double bonds with Oxygen ( $$O=C=O$$  ), creating discrete molecules. Silicon cannot form $$p\pi-p\pi$$  bonds (large size); it forms a giant 3D network of strong $$Si-O$$   single bonds.

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