Question

Ionic solids are insulators in solid state but conductors in molten state why

Answer 1

In solid state, ions are held together by strong electrostatic forces and are not free to move about within the solid. Hence, ionic solids do not conduct electricity in solid state. However, in molten state or in solution form, the ions are free to move andcan conduct electricity.

Answer 2

Explanation:

The ionic solids are insulators in the solid state because the ions are entrapped in fixed places in the crystal lattice and cannot move when electric field is applied. However, in molten state, they become good conductors of electricity.