What is an electrolyte?

An electrolyte is best defined as a liquid solution containing ions. In chemistry, electrolytes are substances that dissociate into ions when dissolved in a solvent, typically water. This dissociation creates a solution capable of conducting electricity due to the movement of these charged ions.

Electrolytes are crucial in various biological processes and are commonly found in bodily fluids, where they help regulate nerve function and muscle contraction, among other vital processes. In practical applications, they are also central to the functioning of batteries and electrochemical cells, where the flow of ions contributes to the generation of electrical energy.

The other options, while related to concepts of electricity and energy storage, do not accurately define an electrolyte. For example, the option about a solid that conducts electricity relates to conductors rather than electrolytes, which are specifically solutions. An acid-base reaction is a different type of chemical process that may involve electrolytes but does not define them. Similarly, a type of solid fuel used in batteries refers to materials involved in energy storage, but again does not characterize electrolytes accurately.