Which of the following compounds is a nonelectrolyte?

• A. NaCl (sodium chloride)
• B. KNO3 (potassium nitrate)
• C. C6H12O6 (glucose)
• D. HCl (hydrochloric acid)

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of an electrolyte: an electrolyte is a substance that dissociates into ions when dissolved in water, allowing the solution to conduct electricity.
2. Identify the nature of each compound: NaCl, KNO3, and HCl are ionic or strong acid compounds that dissociate completely into ions in aqueous solution, making them strong electrolytes.
3. Recognize that C6H12O6 (glucose) is a molecular compound that dissolves in water but does not dissociate into ions; it remains as intact molecules.
4. Conclude that since glucose does not produce ions in solution, it does not conduct electricity and is therefore classified as a nonelectrolyte.
5. Summarize that the key difference lies in whether the compound produces ions in solution (electrolyte) or not (nonelectrolyte).