Question

Which of the following are generally weak electrolytes? (select all that apply)

Select all that apply:
- Weak bases
- Strong bases
- Completely soluble ionic compounds
- Weak acids

Answer 1

Generally, the substances that are weak electrolytes are weak bases and weak acids since they partially dissociate into ions in water. Strong bases and completely soluble ionic compounds are not weak electrolytes because they fully dissociate.

Step-by-step explanation:

To answer which substances are generally weak electrolytes, we must first understand that weak electrolytes are substances that partially dissociate into ions when dissolved in water. Weak acids and weak bases are prime examples of weak electrolytes. They do not fully dissociate into ions in aqueous solutions, meaning that at equilibrium, a substantial amount of the weak acid or weak base remains undissociated. In contrast, strong bases, which include the hydroxides of alkali metals and heavier alkaline earth metals, as well as soluble ionic compounds, are strong electrolytes because they dissociate almost 100% in solution.

In summary, the substances that are generally weak electrolytes include weak bases and weak acids. It's important to note that solubility does not determine the strength of an electrolyte. Therefore, substances that are completely soluble ionic compounds and identified as strong bases are not weak electrolytes because they dissociate completely in solution.