Electrolytes and non-electrolytes

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An electrolyte is a substance that conducts electricity when dissolved in water. When an electrolyte dissolves in water, it dissociates into ions that carry an electric charge, allowing the mixture to conduct electricity.

Examples of electrolytes include:

  • Sodium chloride (NaCl)
  • Potassium chloride (KCl)
  • Calcium chloride (CaCl2)
  • Hydrochloric acid (HCl)

In contrast, a nonelectrolyte is a substance that does not conduct electricity when dissolved in water. It does not dissociate into ions and does not carry an electric charge.

Examples of nonelectrolytes include:

  • Sucrose (C12H22O11)
  • Ethanol (C2H5OH)
  • Glycerol (C3H8O3)