LESSON FOUR ELECTROLYSIS (Experiment to distinguish weak, strong and non-electrolytes)

To distinguish between weak, strong, and non-electrolytes, you can perform an experiment known as the light bulb conductivity test. This experiment uses the ability of electrolytes to conduct electricity and complete a circuit, causing a light bulb to light up. Here's how to carry out this experiment:

Materials needed:
1. Light bulb
2. Battery or power source (of appropriate voltage for the light bulb)
3. Wires with alligator clips or connectors
4. Solutions of known weak electrolytes (e.g., acetic acid or vinegar)
5. Solutions of known strong electrolytes (e.g., sodium chloride or table salt)
6. Solutions of known non-electrolytes (e.g., sugar or ethanol)
7. Conductivity tester or conductivity meter (optional)
8. Glass containers or beakers
9. Disposable pipettes or droppers

Procedure:
1. Set up the circuit by connecting the positive terminal of the battery to the bottom terminal of the light bulb using a wire with an alligator clip or connector.
2. Connect the top terminal of the light bulb to one end of another wire.
3. Fill separate glass containers or beakers with solutions of the known weak electrolyte, known strong electrolyte, and known non-electrolyte.
4. Label each container with the corresponding solution.
5. Dip the free end of the wire from step 2 into one of the solutions.
6. Observe if the light bulb lights up or not.
7. Repeat steps 5-6 for each solution, noting whether the light bulb lights up or not.

Results and Interpretation:
- Weak electrolyte solution: If the light bulb glows dimly or flickers, it indicates that the weak electrolyte solution allows some conductivity and completes the circuit, but not as effectively as a strong electrolyte.
- Strong electrolyte solution: If the light bulb lights up brightly and stays consistently lit, it suggests that the strong electrolyte solution conducts electricity well and completes the circuit effectively.
- Non-electrolyte solution: If the light bulb does not light up at all, it suggests that the non-electrolyte solution does not allow any significant conductivity and does not complete the circuit.

By observing the behavior of the light bulb in each solution, you can distinguish weak, strong, and non-electrolytes based on their ability to conduct electricity and complete the circuit.