Why don’t covalent compounds conduct electricity?
A) They contain free electrons.
B) They have a high melting point.
C) They are composed of ions.
D) They do not have free-moving charged particles.
Correct Answer:
D) They do not have free-moving charged particles.
Explanation:
Covalent compounds are formed by the sharing of electrons between atoms, and they do not produce free ions in their pure state. Consequently, they lack free-moving charged particles (ions or free electrons) that are necessary for conducting electricity. In contrast, ionic compounds conduct electricity because they dissociate into ions in solution or when molten. Options A, B, and C do not accurately describe why covalent compounds do not conduct electricity.
