What is the primary role of electrolytes in electrochemistry?

The primary role of electrolytes in electrochemistry is to dissociate into ions and conduct electricity. In electrochemical systems, such as batteries or electrolytic cells, the flow of electric current is facilitated by the movement of charged particles. When an electrolyte is dissolved in a solvent, such as water, it breaks down into positive and negative ions. These ions are essential because they carry electric charge within the solution, allowing for the conduction of electricity. This is crucial for the functioning of electrochemical cells, where redox reactions take place at the electrodes, and the movement of ions between the electrodes allows these reactions to proceed. Hence, the ability of an electrolyte to provide mobile ions directly enables the essential electrical conductivity needed for electrochemical processes.