Characteristics Of Ionic And Covalent Compounds - Conduction Of Electricity

Question 1

Write a note on ionic compounds and how they conduct electricity
(4)

Answer 1

Ionic compounds do not conduct electricity in the solid state

This is because the ions are locked in fixed positions and cannot carry the electric current through the crystal

If the ionic substance is melted or dissolved in water the ions are now free to move

Therefore, molten ionic compounds and ionic compounds in solution conduct an electric current

Question 2

In what state can ionic compounds not conduct electricity?

Answer 2

The solid state

Question 3

Why cant ionic compounds conduct electricity in the solid state?

Answer 3

This is because the ions are locked in fixed positions and cannot carry the electric current through the crystal

Question 4

Under what conditions are ionic compounds free to move?

Answer 4

If the ionic substance is melted or dissolved in water the ions are now free to move

Question 5

What states must ionic substances be in to conduct electricity?

Answer 5

Molten ionic compounds and ionic compounds in solution conduct an electric current

Question 6

Write a note on covalent compounds and how they conduct electricity
(2)

Answer 6

Covalent compounds do not usually conduct electricity as solids, liquids or gases or when dissolved in water

This is because covalent substances do not contain ions to carry the electric current

Question 7

In what states do covalent compounds usually not conduct electricity?

Answer 7

As solids, liquids or gases or when dissolved in water

Question 8

Why do covalent compounds not conduct electricity as solids, liquids or gases or when dissolved in water?

Answer 8

This is because covalent substances do not contain ions to carry the electric current