Question

Which substance is an electrolyte? (1) O2 (2) Xe (3) C3H8 (4) KNO3

Answer 1

(1) O2  Is a Nonelectrolyte: because it does not ionize when dissolved in a solution

(2) Xe Is a Nonelectrolyte: because it does not ionize when dissolved in a solution

(3) C3H8 Is a Nonelectrolyte: because it does not ionize when dissolved in a solution

(4) KNO3 Is an electrolyte: because it ionizes when dissolved in a solution

Electrolytes:

Electrolytes are the substance whose aqueous solution conducts electricity. These are mainly two types:

1. Strong electrolytes

2. Weak electrolytes:

Strong electrolytes:

Strong electrolytes have following properties:

1. They are ionic compounds.

2. They are completely separates into their ions when dissolved in water.

3. In solution form they conduct electricity due to present of ions but in solid form means neutral molecule does not conduct electricity.

Weak electrolytes:

Weak electrolytes are partially ionizes in water.

In general strong electrolytes are strong acid  and  strong base while weak electrolytes are weak acid and weak bases.

Nonelectrolyte:  

The substance which does not ionize when dissolved in a solution is called non-electrolyte. It is a  poor conductor of electricity.

Answer 2

KNO3 is an electrolyte. The reason being it has low vapor pressure than water(at same temperature). All strong acids, strong bases and salts which are highly soluble make strong electrolytes. Hope it helps.