In which physical state can an ionic compound conduct electricity?

• A. When dissolved in water (aqueous solution)
• B. When in the gaseous state
• C. As a solid at room temperature
• D. When mixed with a nonpolar solvent

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that electrical conductivity in ionic compounds depends on the presence of free-moving charged particles (ions).
2. Recognize that in the solid state, ionic compounds have ions fixed in a rigid lattice, so they cannot move freely to conduct electricity.
3. Know that in the gaseous state, ionic compounds are typically present as neutral molecules or separated ions far apart, so conductivity is negligible.
4. Identify that when an ionic compound is dissolved in water (forming an aqueous solution), the ionic lattice breaks apart, releasing free ions that can move and carry electric current.
5. Note that mixing ionic compounds with nonpolar solvents does not usually result in ion dissociation, so conductivity remains low.