Question

AB₂ is a hard crystalline solid having high melting and boiling points. It conducts electricity in aqueous and molten states.

1. AB₂ conducts electricity due to the presence of free ______ (ions/molecules/electrons).
2. During electrolysis of AB₂ in aqueous state, it is observed that cathode becomes thick and anode thin. The anode material will be ______ (graphite/metal A).

Answer 1

1. AB₂ conducts electricity due to the presence of free ions.
   Explanation:
   In the solid state, ions are locked in a crystal lattice. Once melted (molten) or dissolved in water (aqueous), the lattice breaks down, allowing the ions to move freely and carry an electric charge.
2. During electrolysis of AB₂ in aqueous state, it is observed that cathode becomes thick and anode thin. The anode material will be metal A.
   Explanation:
   Cathode becomes thick when metal is deposited there (reduction).
   Anode becomes thin when metal dissolves into solution (oxidation).
   This happens only if the anode itself is made of the same metal (A), which supplies ions to the solution.