When solid potassium acetate (K2CO3) is put into water, it dissociates completely into its constituent ions. The reaction can be represented as follows:
K2CO3 (s) → 2 K+ (aq) + CO32- (aq)
In this reaction, the solid potassium acetate breaks down into two potassium ions (K+) and one carbonate ion (CO32-). This process occurs because the polar water molecules surround and stabilize the ions, pulling them apart and allowing them to disperse in the solution. Since potassium acetate fully ionizes in water, it is classified as a strong electrolyte. This means that it can conduct electricity well when dissolved, thanks to the free movement of the ions in the solution.