* Ionic Compounds: Sodium hydroxide is an ionic compound. This means it exists as a lattice of positively charged sodium ions (Na+) and negatively charged hydroxide ions (OH-) held together by electrostatic forces.
* Dissociation in Water: When dissolved in water, the ionic bonds in NaOH break, and the ions become free to move independently. This process is called dissociation.
* Mobile Charge Carriers: The free-moving ions in the solution act as charge carriers. When an electric potential is applied, the positively charged sodium ions move towards the negative electrode (cathode), and the negatively charged hydroxide ions move towards the positive electrode (anode). This flow of ions constitutes an electric current.
Therefore, the presence of free-moving ions in a solution of sodium hydroxide makes it a good conductor of electricity.
Important Note: Solid sodium hydroxide itself is not a good conductor of electricity. The conductivity arises only when it's dissolved in water or another suitable solvent.
