Which statement best describes the properties of ionic compounds?

• A. They have high melting and boiling points and conduct electricity when dissolved in water.
• B. They are generally soft and have low melting points.
• C. They are insoluble in water and soluble in nonpolar solvents.
• D. They conduct electricity in solid state but not when dissolved.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that ionic compounds are formed by the electrostatic attraction between positively and negatively charged ions.
2. Recall that ionic compounds typically have high melting and boiling points due to the strong ionic bonds holding the ions together in a lattice structure.
3. Recognize that ionic compounds do not conduct electricity in the solid state because the ions are fixed in place and cannot move freely.
4. Know that when ionic compounds dissolve in water, they dissociate into ions, which are free to move and thus conduct electricity in the aqueous solution.
5. Use this information to evaluate the statements and identify that the correct description is: 'They have high melting and boiling points and conduct electricity when dissolved in water.'