Question

Which of the following statements is true about electrolytes?

• A. Electrolytes are always in solution.
• B. Electrolytes are made of strong acids and bases.
• C. An electrolyte always needs to be ionic in nature.
• D. An electrochemical cell always needs an electrolyte.

Answer 1

The correct option is D An electrochemical cell always needs an electrolyte.

Let us find the answer by the process of elimination.
A is false because it is not necessary the electrolytes are always in solution or aqueous form. It is also possible to have electrolytes of the molten form or fused form.
B is false because we can also have electrolytes made of weak acids and bases in which case they would be called weak electrolytes.
C is false because it is possible to have polar-covalently bonded electrolytes which would typically be weak electrolytes
D is true. We always need an electrolyte in any type of cell for the transfer of ions and electrons through it without which the cell wouldn't function.