Why do ionic compounds conduct electricity when dissolved in water but most covalent compounds do not?

Question

Chemistry

Petersen

28 December, 15:24

Why do ionic compounds conduct electricity when dissolved in water but most covalent compounds do not?

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Answers (1)

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Thalia Coleman · Answer 1

When an ionic compound is dissolved in water, it dissociates into positive and negative ions. As a result these compounds when dissolved in water will conduct electricitya as they will have free electrons for conduction.

When a covalent compound is dissolved in water, it does not dissociate into ions. As there will be no electrons present which are free, hence, covalent compounds will not be able to conduct electricity when dissolved in water.