Video
by Professor Dave Explains
In this video, professor Dave explains how some substances dissociate into ions when placed in water. These substances are called electrolytes and they can conduct electricity. There are strong electrolytes, weak electrolytes, and nonelectrolytes. You will learn about each of these types, plus you'll have a chance to practice what you've learned at the end of the video.
Illustrated · 1 min
An electrolyte is a solution which conducts electricity. Electrolyte solutions are usually **aqueous solutions **made with water. The solute dissolved in water is usually an ionic compound. The ionic compound in water breaks apart into ions. The ionic solution allows electrons in an electrical current to move through the solution.
Image Source: By Cassie Gates
The strength of electrolytes change depending on the amount of dissociation or formation of ions in solution. There are three main categories for electrolyte strength:
Nonelectrolyte - a compound that does not dissociate in solution.
Weak Electrolyte - a compound that dissociates minimally in solution.
Strong Electrolyte - a compound which dissociates between 70-99% in solution.
Many organic compounds are nonelectrolytes. Weak acids like acetic acid are weak electrolytes. Strong electrolytes include strong acids, strong bases, and soluble ionic compounds.
