A substance whose water solution is a good conductor of electricity is an __
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
A substance whose water solution is a good conductor of electricity is an electrolyte.
Explanation:
Electrolytes are substances that dissociate into ions when dissolved in water. This ionic dissociation is crucial because the movement of these charged particles (ions) in solution allows the solution to conduct electricity. Common examples of electrolytes include salts (like sodium chloride), acids (like hydrochloric acid), and bases (like sodium hydroxide).
When an electrolyte dissolves in water, it separates into its constituent ions. For instance, when sodium chloride (NaCl) is dissolved in water, it breaks down into sodium ions (Na⁺) and chloride ions (Cl⁻). These ions are free to move within the solution, which enables the conduction of electrical current. In contrast, non-electrolytes, such as sugar, do not dissociate into ions in water and thus do not conduct electricity.
Electrolytes are essential for various biological processes. In the human body, they play a vital role in maintaining fluid balance, transmitting nerve impulses, and supporting muscle function. The most common electrolytes in the human body include sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, bicarbonate, and phosphate. An imbalance of electrolytes can lead to health issues, such as dehydration, muscle cramps, and cardiac problems.
The strength of an electrolyte’s ability to conduct electricity depends on its concentration and the degree of dissociation. Strong electrolytes, like strong acids and bases, dissociate completely in solution, resulting in a high concentration of ions, which enhances conductivity. In contrast, weak electrolytes only partially dissociate, yielding fewer ions and thus lower conductivity.
In summary, electrolytes are crucial for conducting electricity in aqueous solutions due to their ability to dissociate into ions, making them essential not only in chemical processes but also in biological systems.