Question

Specific conductance is used in water analysis to indirectly estimate dissolved solids. The measurements used in the method account for

• A. Cations only
• B. All ions
• C. Anions only
• D. Un-ionized species

Hint:

Electrical conductivity depends on the total concentration of dissolved ions, not on un-ionized molecules.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Specific conductance (also called electrical conductivity) measures the ability of water to carry electric current. This ability depends on all charged species present in water, including: - cations (e.g., Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Na⁺)
- anions (e.g., Cl⁻, SO₄²⁻, HCO₃⁻)
Un-ionized species do not conduct electricity. Thus, conductivity accounts for total ionic strength, not one type of ion alone. Therefore, the correct statement is that specific conductance measures the presence of all ions. Final Answer: (B)