Which statement best describes NaCl(aq) in terms of its behavior as an electrolyte?

• A. NaCl(aq) is a non-electrolyte because it does not produce ions in solution.
• B. NaCl(aq) is a weak electrolyte because it partially dissociates in water.
• C. NaCl(aq) is a strong electrolyte because it does not dissociate in water.
• D. NaCl(aq) is a strong electrolyte because it completely dissociates into Na^+ and Cl^- ions in water.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand what an electrolyte is: an electrolyte is a substance that produces ions when dissolved in water, allowing the solution to conduct electricity.
2. Recognize that NaCl (sodium chloride) is an ionic compound composed of Na^+ and Cl^- ions held together by ionic bonds in the solid state.
3. When NaCl dissolves in water, it dissociates completely into its constituent ions: \(\mathrm{NaCl (s) \rightarrow Na^{+} (aq) + Cl^{-} (aq)}\).
4. Since NaCl dissociates fully into ions, it increases the concentration of ions in solution significantly, which means it conducts electricity very well.
5. Therefore, NaCl(aq) is classified as a strong electrolyte because it completely dissociates into ions in aqueous solution.