In one to two sentences, explain how to compare the strength of electrostatic forces between molecules in saltwater to the strength of electrostatic forces between molecules in freshwater. Include a description of the data to be collected and how that data would allow one to draw conclusions about the relative strengths of the electrostatic forces in the two substances.
1 answer
To compare the strength of electrostatic forces between molecules in saltwater and freshwater, collect data on electrical conductivity, which represents the ability of a substance to conduct an electric current, with higher conductivity indicating stronger electrostatic forces; comparing the conductivity values of both saltwater and freshwater would allow one to draw conclusions about the relative strengths of the electrostatic forces in the two substances.