electrolyte

electrolyte , electrical conductor in which current is carried by ions rather than by free electrons (as in a metal). Electrolytes include water solutions of acids, bases, or salts; certain pure liquids; and molten salts. Gases may act as electrolytes under conditions of high temperature or low pressure. All inorganic acids, bases, and salts are electrolytes. Electrolytic substances are classified as strong or weak according to how readily they dissociate into conducting ions. Potassium chloride and sodium hydroxide are strong electrolytes; they are almost completely dissociated when in solution or fused. Acetic acid is a weak electrolyte. An electrolyte is decomposed when a current passes through it (see electrolysis ).

electrolyte A chemical compound which, while molten or in solution, is decomposed by the conduction of an electrical current through it. The current is moved by the passage of ions rather than, as in a metal, free electrons.

electrolyte Solution or molten salt that can conduct electricity, as in electrolysis. In electrolytes, current is carried by ions, rather than by electrons. In a lead-acid car battery, the electrolyte is dilute sulphuric acid, which contains negative sulphate ions and positive hydrogen ions.