Electrolytes

Car batteries contain sulfuric acid, an electrolyte

Substances that dissolve in water and conduct electricity are called electrolytes. Such solutions can be categorized as weak or strong electrolytes based on the extent to which they ionize. Most ionic compounds ionize in water, but there are also some molecular compounds that dissolve in water to conduct electricity. The word “electrolyte” is used a lot in our society, usually in a fitness or health context. It is also a common term used in topics ranging from automobiles to electronics.

Essential Questions

• What is the difference between an electrolyte and nonelectrolyte?
• What is the difference between dissociation and ionization?