Explain why ionic compounds such as potassium sulfide have high boiling points and conduct electricity when dissolved in water?

Such compounds have high boiling points because bonds between the atoms are strong. The boiling point largely depends on electronegativity difference between the atoms - as this difference is greater, so is the force that keeps them together. They conduct electricity when molten because ions are free to move in liquid state, due to weakened intra- and intermolecular forces, i.e. ions begin to separate as they gain more energy, be it through electric potential or heat.

IM
Answered by IVOR M. Chemistry tutor

13596 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Why are metals good conductors of electricity?


What is a mole


Nitrogen has an atomic number of 7 and mass number of 14, an isotope of nitrogen has a mass number of 17. Explain what an isotope is and state how many electrons, protons and neutrons this isotope has?


What is the difference between a covalent and ionic bond?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning