What property describes the ability of a solution to carry an electric current?

Prepare for the Physical Chemical Operator SC Test. Review with interactive questions, detailed explanations, and get insights into the exam format. Ensure your success!

Multiple Choice

What property describes the ability of a solution to carry an electric current?

Explanation:
Conductivity is the property describing how readily a solution conducts electricity. In a solution, current is carried by ions; the more ions present and the faster they move, the higher the conductivity. Ion concentration and mobility depend on how well the solute dissociates, the type of ions, and the temperature—strong electrolytes and warmer solutions conduct better. Pure water has very low conductivity, while solutions containing salts, acids, or bases have higher conductivity because they provide more mobile ions. This is distinct from viscosity (resistance to flow), density (mass per volume), or pH (acidity/basicity).

Conductivity is the property describing how readily a solution conducts electricity. In a solution, current is carried by ions; the more ions present and the faster they move, the higher the conductivity. Ion concentration and mobility depend on how well the solute dissociates, the type of ions, and the temperature—strong electrolytes and warmer solutions conduct better. Pure water has very low conductivity, while solutions containing salts, acids, or bases have higher conductivity because they provide more mobile ions. This is distinct from viscosity (resistance to flow), density (mass per volume), or pH (acidity/basicity).

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy