Electrical Engineering XYZ MCQ on Electric current in liquids is due to flow of with brief explanatory answer and solution.
Electric current in liquids is due to flow of
- Positive Ions Only
- Negative Ions only
- Both of these
- Electrons only
Correct answer: 3. Both of these
Explanation: Electric current in liquids occurs primarily because of flow of charged particles. These charged particles can be either positive ions, negative ions, or a combination of both, depending on the nature of the liquid and the electrodes used in the setup.
- Positive Ions Only: In some cases, the liquid may contain positively charged ions (cations) that can move towards the negative electrode (cathode) during the flow of electric current.
- Negative Ions Only: In other cases, the liquid may contain negatively charged ions (anions) that move towards the positive electrode (anode) during the flow of electric current.
- Both of These: Many liquids, especially electrolytes, consist of both positive and negative ions. When an electric potential is applied across the liquid, both types of ions can move, resulting in the flow of electric current. This is common in solutions containing salts or acids.
- Electrons Only: While electrons are the primary charge carriers in metallic conductors, in liquids, it’s more common for ionic species to be responsible for the electric current. However, in some cases, metallic conductors (e.g., liquid metals or certain metal solutions) can also allow the flow of electrons.
In summary, the flow of electric current in liquids can involve the movement of positive ions, negative ions, or both, depending on the composition of the liquid.