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

12984 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What characteristic ion can denote the difference between an acid and an alkali and give an example?


The rate of the reaction between magnesium ribbon and hydrochloric acid can be increased by increasing the concentration of the acid. State two other ways of increasing the rate of this reaction


What will be the resulting molecule if carbon-14 underwent beta decay?


A student wishes to investigate the effect of surface area on the rate of reaction between marble chips and hydrochloric acid. Which variables should he control?


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning