Question

Which of these descriptions are properties of salts? Check all that apply.

are formed by the reaction of two acids

are covalent bonds

dissociate in water

are electrolytes

have low conductivity

are a product of a neutralizing reaction

Answer 1

Correct choices:
- dissociate in water — typically true for soluble salts (they separate into ions in aqueous solution).
- are electrolytes — true when dissolved or melted, because the free ions conduct electricity.
- are a product of a neutralizing reaction — true: acid + base → salt + water.

Not correct:
- are formed by the reaction of two acids — no (usually acid + base).
- are covalent bonds — no (salts are held by ionic attraction; some contain covalent polyatomic ions but the compound is ionic).
- have low conductivity — misleading: solid salts are poor conductors, but molten or aqueous salts conduct well, so salts are not generally described as having low conductivity.