I have two solutions of 0.1 Molar.
A solution of magnesium chloride and a solution of potassium chloride. I thought that the 0.1 M solution of magnesium chloride would conduct electricity better than a 0.1 M solution of potassium chloride. I did a lab in my chemistry class but the potassium chloride seemed to conduct better. which should conduct better?
I think KCl should be slight better.
http://www.smartmeasurement.com/en/wizards/flowmeter/flmtr_mag_conductivity.asp
To determine which solution would conduct electricity better, we need to consider the properties of the ions present in each solution.
In the case of the 0.1 M solution of magnesium chloride, it dissociates into magnesium ions (Mg2+) and chloride ions (Cl-). Meanwhile, the 0.1 M solution of potassium chloride dissociates into potassium ions (K+) and chloride ions (Cl-).
When it comes to conducting electricity in aqueous solutions, the ions involved play a crucial role. Specifically, ions with higher mobility or higher charge density tend to conduct electricity more effectively.
Magnesium ions (Mg2+) have a higher charge density than potassium ions (K+), meaning they have more charge concentrated in a smaller space. This higher charge density allows magnesium ions to move more easily through the solution, resulting in better electrical conductivity. However, since both magnesium and potassium ions are positively charged, they are attracted to the negatively charged electrode during the electrolysis process, limiting their mobility.
On the other hand, chloride ions (Cl-) have the same charge (-1) in both solutions. Since the mobility of chloride ions is similar, their contribution to electrical conductivity is expected to be similar in both solutions.
Considering these factors, magnesium chloride solution should theoretically conduct electricity better than potassium chloride solution. However, your observation in the lab contradicting this expectation suggests that there might have been errors or other factors affecting the results.
In order to get a conclusive answer, it would be important to review the experimental setup, including the concentration and purity of the solutions, the distance between electrodes, and the applied voltage, among other factors. Additionally, replicating the experiment to ensure consistency would be beneficial.
Remember, science can be a complex subject, and experimental results may not always align with theoretical expectations.