rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryelectrolyteCharge-carrying substance
noun

electrolyte

i-LEK-truh-lyt/ɪˈlektrəlaɪt/

A substance that carries electric charge through mobile ions.

The salt solution acts as an electrolyte and allows the bulb to light.

A paired conductivity experiment contrasts dry salt crystals, which leave a bulb dark, with salt dissolved in water, which completes the circuit and lights an identical bulb.
Etymology
electroEnglishelectricity
+lyteGreekto loosen

The “loosening” refers to a substance being decomposed by electrolysis. The modern sense emphasizes its ability to carry electric current when dissolved or molten.

In context

Reactions0:31
an anode that easily gives up electrons. That’s iron. A cathode that easily accepts electrons. That’s oxygen. And lastly, you’ll need an electrolyte solution that shuttles ions between the cathode and anode.
Why Does Metal Rust? - Reactions Q&A

More examples

  • Ions moved through the electrolyte.
  • The battery contained a liquid electrolyte.
  • The experiment compared different electrolytes.

Forms

electrolyte · electrolytes

Similar words

conductor
A conductor carries electric charge; an electrolyte does so through mobile ions.
electrode
An electrode is a conductor in contact with the electrolyte, not the electrolyte itself.