Electrical Conductivity of Water


 
 
Concept Explanation
 

Electrical Conductivity of Water

Electrical Conductivity of Water:

Pure water is a poor conductor. But, the water that we use in our homes is not pure. Generally, tap water, pond water, and well water, etc, contain a lot of impurities, most of which are usually dissolved salts. The presence of even a small amount of impurities makes water a good conductor. Remember, getting an electric shock could result in very serious consequences, even death. So, always take care while operating electrical appliances.

Electrical Conductivity of Other Liquids:

Most acids and bases dissolved in water are good conductors of electricity. To test the electrical conductivity of two common acids, lemon juice and vinegar. When salts like sodium chloride (common salt), potassium iodide, etc, are heated, the molten salts so obtained are good conductors. Most substances that exist as liquids at room temperature, like alcohol, oils, etc. are bad conductors.

Effect of Impurities on Electrical Conductivity of Water:

Moving charged particles are also referred to as charge carriers. In metals, which are good conductors, the charge carriers are a type of particles called electrons. In liquids, the charge carriers are generally ions. Atoms or a group of atoms with a positive or a negative charge are called ions. We dissolve a small quantity of common salt (sodium chloride, NaCI) in pure water. When salt dissolves in water, if forms ions of sodium and chlorine. An electric current will flow in the circuit. Such an arrangement is called an electrolytic cell. Pure water does not form enough ions to conduct electricity.

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Sample Questions
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Question : 1

An arrangement having two carbon rods kept in a conducting liquid in a vessel is known as __________________

Right Option : D
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Question : 2

In an activity to check the conduction of electricity through two liquids labelled A and B by using a bulb, it is observed that the bulb glows brightly for liquid A while it glows very dimly for liquid B, then ___________________

Right Option : A
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Explanation
Question : 3

When salts like sodium chloride (common salt), potassium iodide, etc, are heated, the molten salts so obtained are _____________  conductors

Right Option : A
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Explanation
 
 
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