What is the term for a solution of a substance that is capable of conducting electricity?

• A. Conductor
• B. Insulator
• C. Electrolyte
• D. Semiconductor

Answer: (C)

When a substance dissolves and produces charged particles that can move, the solution can carry an electric current. That kind of solution is called an electrolyte. The movement of ions under an applied electric field is what conducts electricity in the liquid. For example, table salt in water dissociates into Na+ and Cl− ions, creating many charge carriers and allowing current to flow. If a substance doesn’t form ions in solution, like sugar, it’s a non-electrolyte and conducts poorly. A conductor is a solid material that conducts, an insulator resists conduction, and a semiconductor has conductivity that depends on conditions and is typically a solid with unique properties. So the term for a solution capable of conducting electricity is electrolyte.