Non-Electrolyte
| Also Known As | Non-ionic compound, molecular compound (in solution context), non-ionising solute |
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What is Non-Electrolyte?
A substance that does not conduct electricity when dissolved in water because it does not dissociate into ions. Non-electrolytes dissolve as intact molecules. Examples include glucose, sucrose, ethanol, and urea. They do affect colligative properties despite not forming ions.
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
A substance that does not conduct electricity when dissolved in water because it does not dissociate into ions. Non-electrolytes dissolve as intact molecules. Examples include glucose, sucrose, ethanol, and urea. They do affect colligative properties despite not forming ions.
Non-electrolytes are used as: solvents (ethanol, acetone), food and pharmaceutical excipients (glucose, sucrose, glycerol), cryo-protectants (glycerol, DMSO for cell freezing), osmotic pressure agents (sucrose in osmometry), and in colligative property measurements (non-electrolytes have i = 1, simp…
Non-electrolyte hazards depend entirely on the compound: ethanol (flammable, narcotic), methanol (acutely toxic), acetone (flammable, irritant), benzene (carcinogen, flammable). The absence of ionisation does not confer safety. Always assess each non-electrolyte compound individually using its SDS.