Testing Electrolyte Strength of Solids

When a student tested four solids for their ability to complete an electrical circuit when dissolved in water, the results showed that Solid B is a weak electrolyte. Let's explore why Solid B is considered a weak electrolyte based on the data:

Understanding Electrolytes

Electrolytes are substances that conduct electricity when dissolved in water. They are classified as strong electrolytes or weak electrolytes based on their ability to dissociate into ions in solution.

Strong Electrolytes vs. Weak Electrolytes

Strong electrolytes completely dissociate into ions in solution, allowing easy passage of current through their aqueous solution. This facilitates the transportation of electric current.

Weak electrolytes, on the other hand, do not fully dissociate into ions in solution. As a result, they do not allow electric current to pass through their aqueous solution easily.

Interpreting the Results

In the given results, Solid B exhibited a dim light when the circuit containing the light bulb was closed. This dim light indicates that the solution of Solid B did not allow easy passage of electric current through it.

Conclusion

Therefore, based on the ability to complete the electrical circuit and the strength of light emitted, Solid B is identified as a weak electrolyte when dissolved in water. Its incomplete dissociation of ions leads to the dim light observed in the circuit.