Elektrolüütiga

Elektrolüütiga refers to a substance that conducts electricity when dissolved in a solvent, typically water, or when in a molten state. This conductivity arises from the presence of mobile ions. These ions are charged particles, either positive cations or negative anions, which are free to move within the solution or melt. When an electric potential is applied across the electrolyte, these ions migrate towards the electrode with the opposite charge, creating an electrical current.

Common examples of electrolytes include salts like sodium chloride (NaCl), acids like hydrochloric acid (HCl), and bases like sodium hydroxide (NaOH). When these substances dissolve in water, they dissociate into their constituent ions. For instance, NaCl dissociates into Na+ and Cl- ions. In a molten state, ionic compounds like molten NaCl also produce free-moving ions.

The process of electrolysis, where an electric current is used to drive a non-spontaneous chemical reaction, relies heavily on the properties of electrolytes. In electrochemical cells, such as batteries, electrolytes facilitate the flow of ions between the anode and cathode, completing the circuit and allowing for the generation of electrical energy. The strength of an electrolyte is determined by its degree of dissociation into ions; strong electrolytes dissociate almost completely, while weak electrolytes only partially dissociate.