Question

what are the key differences between ionic and covalent compounds in terms of their properties and their roles in supporting life?
covalent compounds are more stable in biological systems.
ionic compounds conduct electricity in water, whereas covalent compounds do not.
all of the above
ionic compounds dissolve easily in water, while covalent compounds do not.

Explanation:

• Covalent compounds form strong bonds, making them stable in biological systems.
• Ionic compounds dissociate in water (like NaCl → Na⁺ + Cl⁻), allowing them to conduct electricity. Covalent compounds (e.g., sugar - C₁₂H₂₂O₁₁) don't dissociate into ions in water and thus don't conduct electricity.
• Ionic compounds (due to ion - dipole interactions with water) dissolve easily. Many covalent compounds (non - polar ones like oil - a hydrocarbon mixture) don't dissolve in water (due to lack of strong interactions with polar water molecules).

Answer:

C. All of the above