Is CH3CH2OH a strong electrolyte?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking whether ethanol (CH3CH2OH), commonly known as ethyl alcohol, can be classified as a strong electrolyte. A strong electrolyte is a substance that completely dissociates into ions in solution, leading to good electrical conductivity. Ethanol is a molecular compound that does not dissociate into ions in water; therefore, it is not a strong electrolyte.
Answer
nonelectrolyte
CH3CH2OH (ethanol) is a nonelectrolyte.
Answer for screen readers
CH3CH2OH (ethanol) is a nonelectrolyte.
More Information
Ethanol consists of covalent bonds and does not dissociate in water to form ions, making it unable to conduct electricity.
Tips
A common mistake is assuming that all polar compounds can conduct electricity. It's essential to recognize that only compounds that dissociate into ions in solution are electrolytes.
