If a crystal lattice structure is so hard, what causes most ionic compounds to be brittle? A. Applying force, such as striking the crystal with a hammer, can release protons, causing ions of similar charges to align, repel each other, and dissolve the crystal.

B. Applying force, such as striking the crystal with a hammer, can release electrons, causing ions to alter their charges, repel each other, and dissolve the crystal.

C. Applying force, such as striking the crystal with a hammer, can shift one layer of ions, causing ions of different charges to align, repel each other, and fragment the crystal.

D. Applying force, such as striking the crystal with a hammer, can shift ions, causing ions of similar charges to align, repel each other, and fragment the crystal.