In solution, what happens to a strong electrolyte?

A strong electrolyte is a substance that, when dissolved in water, completely dissociates into its constituent ions. This means that all of the electrolyte molecules break apart, resulting in a solution that contains only ions and no undissociated molecules. This complete dissociation is essential because it allows strong electrolytes to conduct electricity very efficiently in solution, making them important in many chemical and biological processes.

For example, when sodium chloride (NaCl) is added to water, it dissociates into sodium ions (Na⁺) and chloride ions (Cl⁻). As a result, the solution appears homogeneous and can carry electric current due to the movement of these free ions.

In contrast, the other options refer to different behaviors of substances in solution. Partial dissociation or maintaining molecular form relates to weak electrolytes, which do not completely ionize in solution. Precipitation refers to a scenario where the solubility limit is exceeded, causing an insoluble product to form, and formation of complexes would involve specific interactions with the solvent rather than complete dissociation into ions. Thus, option A accurately describes the behavior of a strong electrolyte in solution.