E

Electrical Conductivity

κ = 1/ρ; Λm = κ/c
Quick Reference
Formula / Notationκ = 1/ρ; Λm = κ/c
Also Known AsElectric conductivity; specific conductance; κ (kappa); electrolytic conductivity; ionic conductivity; conductance

What is Electrical Conductivity?

Electrical conductivity (κ) is the measure of a material's ability to conduct electric current. It is the reciprocal of electrical resistivity (ρ). In solutions, conductivity depends on the concentration and mobility of ions. Strong electrolytes have high conductivity. Metals have the highest conductivity due to freely moving electrons. The unit is siemens per metre (S/m).

Formula & Notation

κ = 1/ρ; Λm = κ/c

Other Names / Synonyms: Electric conductivity; specific conductance; κ (kappa); electrolytic conductivity; ionic conductivity; conductance

Properties & Characteristics

Symbol κ (kappa); unit: S/m or S/cm; metals: 10⁶–10⁸ S/m; semiconductors: 10⁻⁴–10⁴ S/m; insulators: <10⁻⁸ S/m; solutions: molar conductivity Λm = κ/c; Kohlrausch law: Λm = Λ°m − K√c; increases with temperature in electrolytes

Uses & Applications

Measuring electrolyte concentration; water quality monitoring; conductimetric titrations; electrochemistry; materials selection for electronics; quality control of ionic solutions; soil testing

Safety Information

No direct hazard from the property. Solutions with high conductivity (strong acids, bases) are corrosive.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Electrical Conductivity
Formula κ = 1/ρ; Λm = κ/c
Synonyms Electric conductivity; specific conductance; κ (kappa); electrolytic conductivity; ionic conductivity; conductance

Frequently Asked Questions

Electrical conductivity (κ) is the measure of a material's ability to conduct electric current. It is the reciprocal of electrical resistivity (ρ). In solutions, conductivity depends on the concentration and mobility of ions. Strong electrolytes have high conductivity. Metals have the highest conductivity due to freely moving electrons. The unit is siemens per metre (S/m).

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