Abstract
The maximum hardness principle (MHP), formulated by Pearson over three decades ago, and the associated minimum polarizability principle (MPP) by Chattaraj and Sengupta are valuable general characteristics of chemical matter. In this account, we discuss formal ramifications of the concept of hardness and of the maximum hardness principle. Then we consider applicability of the (generalized) MHP and MPP to chemical elements and chemical compounds with allotropy (polymorphism) and associated phase transitions in focus. We rationalize the propensity toward metallization of elements and compounds while considering the appearance of a superconducting state; we also analyze the unique phenomenon of high-temperature superconductivity. Finally, we discuss how MHP may guide our intuition in terms of polymorphism and the expected outcome of chemical reactions.
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