What defines a non-electrolyte?

A non-electrolyte is characterized by its inability to dissociate into ions when dissolved in a solvent, typically water. This means that when a non-electrolyte is put into solution, it remains as intact molecules rather than breaking apart into charged particles. As a result, non-electrolytes do not conduct electricity because there are no free ions available to carry the electrical current.

In contrast, substances that completely dissociate into ions when dissolved are known as strong electrolytes, and those that partially dissociate are called weak electrolytes; both of these types can conduct electricity due to the presence of ions. The other options presented misunderstand the definitions related to electrolytic behavior: one suggests characteristics of electrolytes, while another describes transient charges that are different from the behavior of classic indicators of a non-electrolyte. Thus, the defining feature of a non-electrolyte is its inability to form ions in solution.