Question

What is the effect of solute-solvent interaction on electrolytic conduction?

Answer 1

Electrolytic conduction is reduced when the ions in the solution are highly solvated. Ion solvation is dependent on the interaction between the solute and the solvent. Ions solvate more readily and conduct less current when there is a higher contact between the solute and solvent particles. For example, because smaller Li⁺ ions are more solvated than bigger Na⁺ ions, an aqueous solution of LiCl conducts less current than one of NaCl.