Q4.12P - Chemistry: Molecular Nature Of Matter And Change

Question

Question: State whether an aqueous solution of each of the following substances conducts an electric current. Explain your reasoning. 

(a) Caesium bromide (b) Hydrogen iodide

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Answer

 

a) Yes, an aqueous solution of Caesium bromide conducts electric current.

b) Yes, an aqueous solution of Hydrogen iodide conducts electric current.

Step 1: Explain the solubility of ionic compounds in water

 

All the ionic compounds which dissociate into ions on dissolving in water conduct electricity because they contain charge and are free to move in the solution.

 

Step 2: Determine the aqueous solution of given compounds conduct electricity or not

 

An aqueous solution of both the given compounds i.e.,

(a) Caesium bromide and (b) Hydrogen iodide can conduct electricity

Because both produce free moving charged ions on dissolving in water and conduct electric current.

In the case of Caesium bromide, it dissociates into CS⁺ and Br^- ions and conducts electricity.

In the case of Hydrogen iodide, it is a strong acid and dissociates completely in the water into H⁺ and I^_ ions through which it conducts electricity.