Electrolytes and Ionisation

How the real exam tests it

Questions from real CSCA papers that test this concept. Work each one out before you open the answer.

1. CSCA Chemistry December 2025 Past Paper
   Which of the following is a non-electrolyte? ( )
   • A. Sodium acetate
   • B. Sucrose
   • C. Sodium hydroxide
   • D. Sulfuric acid
   Show answer & solution

   Answer: B

   Answer: B A non-electrolyte does not ionize in water and does not conduct electricity. Sucrose dissolves as molecules and produces no ions. Sodium acetate, sodium hydroxide and sulfuric acid are all electrolytes.
   See it in the full CSCA Chemistry December 2025 Past Paper
2. CSCA Chemistry April 2026 Past Paper
   Which of the following substances is an electrolyte? ( )
   • A. Ag
   • B. CO
   • C. $\mathrm{H_{2}}$
   • D. NaOH
   Show answer & solution

   Answer: D

   Answer: D NaOH is a strong base and is an electrolyte.
   Take the full CSCA Chemistry April 2026 Past Paper — timed & graded
3. CSCA Chemistry March 2026 Past Paper
   Which substance conducts electricity when dissolved but is itself a non-electrolyte?
   • A．Hydrogen chloride
   • B．Carbon dioxide
   • C．Sodium hydroxide
   • D．Copper wire
   Show answer & solution

   Answer: B

   $\mathrm { CO } _ { 2 }$ is non-electrolyte but forms $\mathrm { H } _ { 2 } \mathrm { CO } _ { 3 }$ in water (conducts weakly). A/C: electrolytes. D: metal. Answer: B.
   Take the full CSCA Chemistry March 2026 Past Paper — timed & graded