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

12579 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Name and describe the type of bond in sodium chloride


Describe the difference between bases and alkalis, and explain acid-alkali neutralisation reactions.


What is Le Chatelier's Principle?


How do you test for the different halide ions?


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