Why are aqueous solutions of ionic compounds good conductors of electricity?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is option (c) Their aqueous solutions have a high concentration of ions.

Explanation

When ionic compounds dissolve in water, they dissociate into their respective ions. The presence of these free-moving ions in the solution allows it to conduct electricity. In aqueous solutions, the ions are separated and are free to move, which is necessary for the conduction of electric current. The higher the concentration of ions in the solution, the better the solution can conduct electricity.

This is the main reason why aqueous solutions of ionic compounds are good conductors of electricity, as compared to solid ionic compounds, which do not have free-moving ions and thus cannot conduct electricity in their solid form.

Information Booster

• Ions are charged particles that are able to move freely in solution, allowing them to conduct electricity.

• Water is an excellent solvent for ionic compounds because it can surround and stabilize the ions, allowing them to separate and move freely.

• The conductivity of an aqueous solution depends on the concentration of ions in the solution, as well as the nature of the ionic compound.

• High concentration of ions generally leads to better conductivity in an aqueous solution.

• Electrolytes are substances that produce ions when dissolved in water, and they can conduct electricity.

Additional Knowledge

• Option (a) Ionic compounds are highly soluble in water: While many ionic compounds are soluble in water, this is not the direct reason for their ability to conduct electricity. Solubility alone does not guarantee electrical conductivity; the key factor is the presence of free-moving ions in solution.

• Option (b) They have very high lattice energy: Lattice energy refers to the energy required to break apart the ions in a solid ionic compound. While lattice energy plays a role in determining the solubility of ionic compounds, it does not directly explain why their aqueous solutions conduct electricity. High lattice energy means the compound is more stable, but it does not impact ion movement in solution.

• Option (c) Their aqueous solutions have a high concentration of ions: This is the correct explanation. When ionic compounds dissolve in water, they dissociate into a high concentration of ions, which are essential for conducting electricity.