Arrhenius Theory of Electrolytic Dissociation

Arrhenius Theory of Electrolytic dissociation states that the aqueous solution of acid conducts electricity when a substance called electrolyte is dissolved in the solution, which further dissociates into ions and conducts electricity.

Dissociation is the process of dissolving substances into smaller parts that can reassemble in other circumstances. The compound’s molecules disintegrate into ions (electrically charged particles) in an ionic or electrolytic dissociation process that involves the addition of an electrolyte or solvent.

Water being a neutral substance does not conduct electricity. But when an electrolyte (such as salt) is dissolved in water, it conducts electricity. This process is known as “Electrolytic Dissociation“.

The electrolytic dissociation of a substance further depends on the nature of the electrolyte. The electrolytes are of basically two types namely:

• Strong Electrolytes
• Weak Electrolytes

Strong Electrolytes

Strong Electrolytes are those that can totally breakdown into their corresponding ions even in mild circumstances.

• Its dissociation constant is also large, indicating a high degree of dissociation.

• Electrical conductivity is very high in this kind of electrolytes.

Weak Electrolytes

Weak electrolytes can only partially dissociate in an aqueous solution.

• Low ionization and a lower dissociation constant value are characteristics of these electrolytes.

• Electrical conductivity is poor in them.

Read More, Strong and Weak Electrolytes

Arrhenius Theory introduced in 1887 by Swedish scientist Svante Arrhenius, is used to describe the behavior of acids and bases in aqueous solutions. This theory states that a material that releases hydroxide ions (OH^–) in water is an Arrhenius base, and a substance that releases hydrogen ions (H⁺) in water is an Arrhenius acid.

This article will thoroughly explain the Arrhenius theory, along with instances of Arrhenius bases, Arrhenius acids and Arrhenius theory of electrolytic dissociation.