NaOH has a high melting point and conducts electricity in solution. H2O has a low melting point and does not conduct electricity. Explain, using the structure of each, why this is the case.

NaOH is an ionic compound with strong electrostatic attraction between the oppositely charged ions. This means the melting point is high, as the bonds need a lot of energy to overcome. When dissolved, the ions are free to move and can carry the electric charge through.
H2O is a simple covalent molecule. To melt H2O, the intermolecular forces must be broken, which are weak so require little energy to do so. H2O, as it is covalent, does not have any ions to carry a charge so will not conduct electricity.

ST
Answered by Sophie T. Chemistry tutor

8735 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

A solution of sugar has a concentration of 3 g/dm3. What is the mass of sugar in 0.5 dm3 of solution?


How does increasing the temperature increase the rate of a reaction?


Describe and explain the changes between sulphuric acid with copper carbonate, connected to a test tube with limewater.


Predict the products of electrolysis of molten calcium chloride and explain which ions are at each electrode


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