When ionic compounds dissolve in water their cations and anions become less attracted to each other. Does this support the idea that ionic compounds are good co

Question

When ionic compounds dissolve in water their cations and anions become less attracted to each other. Does this support the idea that ionic compounds are good conductors when dissolved? Explain.

 

 

Answer 1

Per many textbooks, ionic compounds dissolve because the electrostatic forces of polar water molecules are stronger than the electrostatic forces holding the compounds together. So it is not really the ions of the compound are less attracted to each other, but more that there is a stronger force at play. Due to this, the solution will be able to conduct electricity.