Question

Classify each of the following substances as a nonelectrolyte, weak electrolyte, or strong electrolyte in water:

(a) H₂SO₃,
(b) CH₃CH₂OH (ethanol),
(c) NH₃,
(d) KClO₃,
(e) Cu(NO₃)2?

Answer 1

Substances are classified based on their ability to dissociate in water: H₂SO₃ as a weak electrolyte, CH₃CH₂OH as a nonelectrolyte, NH₃ as a weak electrolyte, KClO₃ and Cu(NO₃)₂ both as strong electrolytes.

Step-by-step explanation:

When classifying substances as nonelectrolytes, weak electrolytes, or strong electrolytes, the key is to look at how the substance dissociates in water. Non-electrolytes do not dissociate into ions at all, weak electrolytes dissociate partially, and strong electrolytes dissociate completely.

• H₂SO₃ (Sulfurous acid) is a weak electrolyte because it partially dissociates into ions in water.
• CH₃CH₂OH (Ethanol) is a nonelectrolyte because it does not dissociate into ions when dissolved in water.
• NH₃ (Ammonia) is a weak electrolyte as it partially ionizes in water to form ammonium and hydroxide ions.
• KClO₃ (Potassium chlorate) is a strong electrolyte because it completely dissociates into potassium and chlorate ions in solution.
• Cu(NO₃)₂ (Copper(II) nitrate) is a strong electrolyte; it fully ionizes in water, releasing copper ions and nitrate ions.