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11 grade chemistry others

Potassium chloride conducts electricity in _____ state.

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10 Months agoGrade
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1 Answer

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ApprovedApproved Tutor Answer10 Months ago

Potassium chloride (KCl) is an ionic compound that conducts electricity when it is in a molten state or dissolved in water. This is because the ions are free to move and carry an electric current.

States of Potassium Chloride

  • Solid State: In its solid form, KCl does not conduct electricity because the ions are fixed in place within the crystal lattice.
  • Molten State: When heated to high temperatures, KCl melts, allowing the ions to move freely and conduct electricity.
  • Aqueous Solution: When dissolved in water, KCl dissociates into potassium and chloride ions, which can also move freely, enabling electrical conductivity.

Key Takeaway

For potassium chloride to conduct electricity, it must be either molten or dissolved in water, where the ions are mobile and can carry an electric charge.