electrolytic dissociation

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electrolytic dissociation

chemistry

Also known as: ionic dissociation

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June 26, 2026

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In chemistry, electrolytic dissociation is the process where a compound breaks down into electrically charged particles called ions. This typically occurs when a substance is dissolved in a solvent, like water, or when energy in the form of heat is applied.1

For example, when hydrogen chloride gas dissolves in water, it dissociates into positively charged hydronium ions ((H_3O^+)) and negatively charged chloride ions ((Cl^-)). This dissociation is what allows electrolytes, such as acids, bases, and salts, to conduct electricity. The movement of these ions towards oppositely charged electrodes (cathode and anode) constitutes the electric current within the electrolyte. This phenomenon is fundamental to understanding electrical conductivity in solutions.2341

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acid–base reaction
Hydrogen and hydroxide ions
…with the advent of the electrolytic dissociation theory propounded by Wilhelm Ostwald and Svante August Arrhenius (both Nobel laureates) in the 1880s. The principal feature of this theory is that certain compounds, called electrolytes, dissociate in solution to give ions. With the development of this theory it was realized that…
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…with the advent of the electrolytic dissociation theory propounded by Wilhelm Ostwald and Svante August Arrhenius (both Nobel laureates) in the 1880s. The principal feature of this theory is that certain compounds, called electrolytes, dissociate in solution to give ions. With the development of this theory it was realized that…
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dissociation
In electrolytic, or ionic, dissociation, the addition of a solvent or of energy in the form of heat causes molecules or crystals of the substance to break up into ions (electrically charged particles). Most dissociating substances produce ions by chemical combination with the solvent. The idea…
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In electrolytic, or ionic, dissociation, the addition of a solvent or of energy in the form of heat causes molecules or crystals of the substance to break up into ions (electrically charged particles). Most dissociating substances produce ions by chemical combination with the solvent. The idea…
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liquid
Electrolytes and nonelectrolytes
…in water, it forms an electrolytic solution, dissociating into positive sodium ions (Na⁺) and negative chloride ions (Cl^-), whereas sugar dissolved in water maintains its molecular integrity and does not dissociate.
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…in water, it forms an electrolytic solution, dissociating into positive sodium ions (Na⁺) and negative chloride ions (Cl^-), whereas sugar dissolved in water maintains its molecular integrity and does not dissociate.
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Rudolf Clausius
…basis of the theory of electrolytic dissociation (breakdown of molecules into charged atoms or ions).
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…basis of the theory of electrolytic dissociation (breakdown of molecules into charged atoms or ions).
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