QQuestionChemistry
QuestionChemistry
Why do ionic compounds conduct electricity when dissolved in water, but most covalent compounds do not?
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Answer
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Step 1I'll solve this problem step by step, explaining the key concepts behind ionic and covalent compound electrical conductivity:
Step 2: Understanding Ionic Compounds
\mathrm{NaCl} \rightarrow \mathrm{Na}^{+} + \mathrm{Cl}^{-}
Ionic compounds are composed of positively and negatively charged ions held together by electrostatic attraction. When dissolved in water, these ions can separate and move freely.
Final Answer
Ionic compounds conduct electricity when dissolved in water because the dissolved ions can move freely and act as charge carriers, while most covalent compounds do not conduct electricity because they do not form mobile ions when dissolved.
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