Conductivity is a contrivance to explore ion-pair and triple-ion structure of ethanoates in tetrahydrofuran, dimethyl sulfoxide and their binaries

Precise electrical conductance measurements are reported for some ethanoates, viz. ammonium, lithium, sodium and potassium in pure tetrahydrofuran (THF) and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and their binary mixtures at 298.15 K. The conductance data have been analyzed by the Fuoss conductance–concentration equation to evaluate the limiting molar conductance (Λo), the thermodynamic association constant (KA) and the association diameter (R) for ion-pair formation. The limiting ionic conductances have been estimated from the appropriate division of the limiting molar conductivity value of the “reference electrolyte” Bu4NBPh4. Furthermore, the conductance data for pure THF have been analyzed by the Fuoss–Kraus theory of triple ions and the values of the ion-pair and triple-ion formation constants (KP and KT) were made and the results have been discussed in terms of molecular scale model.

► Conductance measurements are reported for ethanoates in THF, DMSO and their binary mixtures. ► Triple ion formation in pure THF having low dielectric constant. ► The cations are more solvated than the anions. ► The coulombic force has a great effect on the association process.