The correct option is (c) 1 and 3 only.
Explanation
Electrical conductivity in liquids depends on the presence of free-moving charged particles, typically ions. Pure water is a covalent compound with very low ionization, whereas water containing dissolved impurities acts as an electrolyte.- Statement 1 is Correct: Water obtained from taps, wells, and ponds is not chemically pure. It contains small amounts of dissolved mineral salts. These salts dissociate into ions (cations and anions), which act as charge carriers, allowing electricity to flow through the water.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The presence of dissolved mineral salts increases the concentration of ions in the water. Since ions facilitate the flow of electric current, dissolved salts make water a good conductor of electricity, not an insulator.
- Statement 3 is Correct: Distilled water is chemically pure and free of dissolved salts. Without these impurities, there are negligible free ions available to conduct electric charge. Consequently, distilled water acts as a poor conductor (or an insulator).
Key Takeaway: The electrical conductivity of water is directly proportional to the concentration of dissolved ions; pure water is an insulator, while water with dissolved salts is a conductor.