Do ionic compounds conduct electricity when molten?

Do ionic compounds conduct electricity when molten?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only in solid state
• D. Only when dissolved

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that electricity in ionic compounds relies on mobile charge carriers. In a solid ionic lattice, the ions are locked in place and cannot move, so no current can flow. When the substance is molten, the lattice breaks down and the ions can move freely, allowing positive and negative ions to drift under an electric field and carry charge. The same concept explains why ionic compounds also conduct when dissolved, as the ions are separated and can move in solution. Therefore, molten ionic compounds do conduct electricity.

The main idea is that electricity in ionic compounds relies on mobile charge carriers. In a solid ionic lattice, the ions are locked in place and cannot move, so no current can flow. When the substance is molten, the lattice breaks down and the ions can move freely, allowing positive and negative ions to drift under an electric field and carry charge. The same concept explains why ionic compounds also conduct when dissolved, as the ions are separated and can move in solution. Therefore, molten ionic compounds do conduct electricity.