Question

Question:State whether an aqueous solution of each of the following substances conducts an electric current. Explain your reasoning.

(a) Potassium sulfate (b) Sucrose,${\mathit{C}}_{\mathbf{12}}{\mathit{H}}_{\mathbf{22}}{\mathit{O}}_{\mathbf{11}}$

Short answer

Answer

a) Yes, an aqueous solution of Potassium sulfate conducts an electric current.

b) No, an aqueous solution of Sucrose,${\mathit{C}}_{\mathbf{12}}{\mathit{H}}_{\mathbf{22}}{\mathit{O}}_{\mathbf{11}}$ does not conduct an electric current.

Step-by-step solution

Explain the solubility of ionic compounds in aqueous solution

Those compounds which give ions on dissolving in water can conduct electric current in their aqueous solution.

Determine aqueous solution of given compounds conduct electricity or not

In the case of Potassium sulfate: It is an ionic compound and dissociates into its ions as K⁺and SO₄^2- through which their aqueous solution conducts electric current.

In the case of Sucrose,${\mathit{C}}_{\mathbf{12}}{\mathit{H}}_{\mathbf{22}}{\mathit{O}}_{\mathbf{11}}$It is a covalent compound and does not dissociate into ions even though it is soluble in water.

Hence, it is known as non-electrolyte and its aqueous solution does not conduct an electric current.