Taking into account the definition of ionic compound, the correct answer is option a): Cations and anions are released into the solution.
First, you have to know that an ion is an electrically charged particle.
So, the ionic bond consists of the electrostatic attraction between ions with charges of opposite sign. This type of bond occurs between the chemical combination of a metal and a nonmetal.
Finally, an ionic compound is made up of positive and negative ions, held together by electrostatic forces of attraction. Atoms of metallic elements tend to lose one or more electrons when combined with non-metallic atoms, and non-metallic atoms tend to gain one or more electrons.
As a result of this transfer of electrons, the metallic atom becomes a positive ion (called a cation) and the non-metallic atom becomes a negative ion (called an anion).
In other words, an ionic compound is a chemical compound made up of two substances with a significant difference in their electronegativities. It is formed preferably between metals and non-metals.
So when ionic compounds dissolve in water, they separate into cations and anions, electrolytic dissociation occurs. This is because water becomes a conductor of electricity.
In summary, the correct answer is option a): Cations and anions are released into the solution.
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