Here's why:
* Ionic Compounds: Copper chloride is an ionic compound, meaning it's formed by the electrostatic attraction between positively charged copper ions (Cu²⁺) and negatively charged chloride ions (Cl⁻).
* Solid State: In its solid state, the ions are tightly packed in a crystal lattice, making it a poor conductor. The ions are fixed in position and cannot move freely.
* Molten State: When copper chloride is melted, the strong electrostatic forces holding the ions together are overcome. This allows the ions to move freely within the liquid.
* Electric Current: When an electric potential is applied across the molten copper chloride, the positively charged copper ions move towards the negative electrode (cathode), and the negatively charged chloride ions move towards the positive electrode (anode). This movement of ions constitutes an electric current.
Therefore, the presence of free, mobile ions in molten copper chloride enables it to conduct electricity.
