Question

multiple-choice question
which of the following will form individual ions when dissolved in water?
sugar
olive oil
sodium chloride
paraffin wax

Explanation:

• Sugar is a covalent compound (molecular), so it dissolves as molecules, not ions.
• Olive oil is nonpolar and immiscible with water, so it doesn't dissolve to form ions.
• Sodium chloride ($\text{NaCl}$) is an ionic compound. When dissolved in water, the polar water molecules separate the $\text{Na}^+$ and $\text{Cl}^-$ ions, forming individual ions.
• Paraffin wax is a nonpolar hydrocarbon and is insoluble in water, so it doesn't form ions.

Answer:

C. sodium chloride