Question

An ionic compound is a good conductor of electricity in an aqueous state because ______.

Options

• ions are not free

• molecules are not free

• molecules become free

• bond strength decreases

Answer 1

An ionic compound is a good conductor of electricity in an aqueous state because bond strength decreases.

Explanation:

• In the solid state, ionic compounds are held together by extremely strong electrostatic forces of attraction (high bond strength), which keeps the ions locked in fixed positions.
• When dissolved in water (aqueous state), the high dielectric constant of water weakens these electrostatic forces, causing the bond strength to decrease.
• As a result, the crystal lattice breaks down, and the ions become free and mobile to conduct electricity.