Chemistry · EQUILIBRIUM

When solid sodium chloride is dissolved in water, the electrostatic force of attraction between \( \text{Na}^+ \) and \( \text{Cl}^- \) ions is reduced by a factor of 80 because:

1. A
   Water has a high dielectric constant of 80.
2. B
   The size of hydrated sodium ion becomes equal to chloride ion.
3. C
   Water acts as a strong electrolyte and ionizes completely.
4. D
   Water undergoes auto-ionization to produce hydronium ions.