Why can molten ionic compounds conduct electricity?

Molten ionic compounds can conduct electricity because they have freely moving ions. In their solid state, ionic compounds are composed of a lattice structure where the ions are held tightly in position by strong electrostatic forces of attraction. This arrangement prevents the ions from moving freely, which is essential for conducting electricity.

When an ionic compound is heated to its melting point, the energy provided overcomes the electrostatic forces holding the ions in place, allowing them to become mobile. As a result, in a molten state, the ions are free to move and can carry electrical current. The flow of these charged particles constitutes the conduction of electricity, which is why molten ionic compounds are able to conduct electricity effectively.

Other options, while related to properties of ionic compounds, do not directly explain the ability to conduct electricity in their molten state.