Question

Which of the following is not the property of covalent substances?

• A. have definite shape
• B. have low melting points
• C. good conductors of electricity
• D. soluble in non - polar solvents

Hint:

Ionic compounds tend to be good conductors of electricity when dissolved in water or molten, while covalent compounds are generally poor conductors.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Covalent substances generally do not conduct electricity because they do not have free electrons or ions that can move to carry charge. They are usually non-electrolytes in their pure state. Thus, the property of being "good conductors of electricity" is not applicable to covalent substances.

Answer 2

Step 1: Understanding Covalent Substances
Covalent substances are formed by the sharing of electrons between atoms.
These substances usually have low melting and boiling points.
They exist as molecules and do not have free ions or electrons to conduct electricity.

Step 2: Common Properties of Covalent Substances
- Poor conductors of electricity in solid and molten states.
- Usually soluble in non-polar solvents.
- Low melting and boiling points.
- Generally brittle or soft depending on the type.

Step 3: Electrical Conductivity
Since covalent compounds do not have free-moving charged particles (ions or electrons),
they cannot conduct electricity well.
Only exceptions are some molecules like graphite which have delocalized electrons.

Step 4: Conclusion
Therefore, "good conductors of electricity" is not a property of covalent substances.
This property is typical of metallic substances, not covalent.