Why are most solid ionic compounds electrically nonconductive, whereas aqueous solutions of ionic compounds are good conductors? Would you expect a liquid (molten) ionic compound to be electrically conductive or nonconductive? Explain

It is known that for a substance to conduct electricity it is important that there must be flow of electrons or ions.

In solid compounds, molecules are not present in the form of ions. As they are held closer to each other due to strong intermolecular forces of attraction.

Hence, a solid ionic substance doe not have flow of ions or electrons in solid state. Therefore, they are non-conductive in nature.

Whereas when an ionic compound is dissolved in a solvent then it will dissociate into ions due to which there will be flow of ions and electrons. Hence, aqueous solutions of ionic compounds are able to conduct electricity.

Electrolytes are the substances that dissociates into the constituent ionswhen dissolved into water. Theelectrical conductivity in the medium requires moving ions.