Which aqueous solution is expected to be the best conductor of electric current (assuming equal concentrations)?

• A. $N{a}_{2}S{O}_4$ (aq)
• B. $C2H_{5}OH$ (aq)
• C. $C{H}_{3}COOH$ (aq)
• D. $N_{2}H4$ (aq)

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the nature of each compound in aqueous solution: whether it is a strong electrolyte (completely ionizes), weak electrolyte (partially ionizes), or a nonelectrolyte (does not ionize).
2. Write the dissociation equation for each compound in water to determine the number of ions produced per formula unit. For example, sodium sulfate dissociates as \(\mathrm{Na_2SO_4 (aq) \rightarrow 2\ Na^{+} (aq) + SO_4^{2-} (aq)}\).
3. Recall that electrical conductivity depends on the concentration of ions in solution; more ions mean better conductivity.
4. Compare the total number of ions produced by each compound upon dissociation. Strong electrolytes that produce more ions will conduct electricity better.
5. Conclude that the compound producing the greatest number of ions and fully dissociating in solution will be the best conductor of electric current at equal concentrations.