Theory of Conductivity

Conductivity is the ability of a solution to conduct electric current. It is determined from the voltage and current values according to Ohm’s law. Conductivity is proportional to ion concentration, but ionic interactions can alter the linear relationship between conductivity and concentration in concentrated solutions. The basic unit of conductivity is Siemens and the unit of specific conductivity unit is Siemens/cm. Conductivity measurements are temperature dependent; it varies from solution to solution.

Questions

• What is conductivity?
• How is conductivity measured?
• What are the factors that affect conductivity?
• What are the units of conductivity?
• How does temperature affect conductivity?

Answers

• Conductivity is the ability of a solution to conduct electric current.
• Conductivity is measured by applying a voltage to a solution and measuring the current that flows.
• The factors that affect conductivity are ion concentration, ionic interactions, and temperature.
• The units of conductivity are Siemens and the unit of specific conductivity unit is Siemens/cm.
• Temperature affects conductivity by increasing the mobility of ions.