Why is ionic compounds bad conductor in their solid state?
Question
Why is ionic compounds bad conductor in their solid state?
Solution
Ionic compounds are poor conductors of electricity in their solid state due to the lack of free moving ions. Here's a step-by-step explanation:
-
Ionic compounds are made up of positive and negative ions held together by strong electrostatic forces of attraction, known as ionic bonds.
-
In the solid state, these ions are locked in a fixed position in a lattice structure. They are not free to move around.
-
For a substance to conduct electricity, it must have charged particles that are free to move. In metals, for example, these are the 'free electrons' that can move and carry charge from one place to another.
-
Because the ions in a solid ionic compound are not free to move, they cannot carry charge and so the compound does not conduct electricity.
-
However, if the ionic compound is melted or dissolved in water, the ions become free to move and can carry charge, so the compound can conduct electricity. This is why ionic compounds are good conductors in liquid state or when in an aqueous solution.
Similar Questions
Generally, Ionic compounds are hard crystalline solids. Why?
Why are ionic compounds brittle?
How does the formation of ionic bonds affect the properties of ionic compounds?AThe bonds prevent ions from moving throughout the crystal, so a solid ionic compound is a poor conductor.BThe bonds weakly hold ions together, increasing the melting point.CThe bonds prevent electrons from moving throughout the crystal, so a solid ionic compound is a good conductor.DThe bonds strongly hold ions together, reducing the
Which of the following is not a property of ionic compounds?Good electrical conductivity in all states.Very high boiling points.Form crystalline structures.Usually a solid at room temperature.
Which one of the following statements is false? Most ionic compounds are solids at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. Metal alloys tend to be hard and brittle. The bond between silicon and oxygen is primarily covalent. The bonding in LiH is primarily ionic. Molten sodium chloride is an excellent conductor of electricity.
Upgrade your grade with Knowee
Get personalized homework help. Review tough concepts in more detail, or go deeper into your topic by exploring other relevant questions.