Which of the following is a poor conductor of electricity?

Options

A. `CH_(3)COONa`
B. `C_(2)H_(5)OH`
C. `NaCl`
D. `KOH`

Answer

To determine which of the given substances is a poor conductor of electricity, we need to analyze the nature of each substance in terms of its ability to dissociate into ions when dissolved in water. The presence of ions is crucial for electrical conductivity.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand Electrical Conductivity**:
- Electrical conductivity in solutions is primarily due to the movement of ions. Substances that dissociate into ions in solution are good conductors, while those that do not are poor conductors.

2. **Analyze Each Substance**:
- **Sodium Acetate (CH3COONa)**: This is an ionic compound that dissociates into CH3COO⁻ and Na⁺ ions when dissolved in water. Therefore, it is a good conductor of electricity.
- **Ethanol (C2H5OH)**: Ethanol is a covalent compound and does not dissociate into ions in solution. It remains as neutral molecules, making it a poor conductor of electricity.
- **Sodium Chloride (NaCl)**: This is another ionic compound that dissociates into Na⁺ and Cl⁻ ions in solution, indicating it is a good conductor of electricity.
- **Potassium Hydroxide (KOH)**: KOH is also an ionic compound that dissociates into K⁺ and OH⁻ ions in solution, thus it is a good conductor of electricity.

3. **Identify the Poor Conductor**:
- Among the substances analyzed, ethanol (C2H5OH) is the only one that does not dissociate into ions and therefore is a poor conductor of electricity.

### Conclusion:
The substance that is a poor conductor of electricity is **Ethanol (C2H5OH)**.

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