Electrolytes are substances that, when dissolved in water, generate ions within the solution. These ions enable the solution to conduct electric current. There are two primary mechanisms by which ions are produced: either through the dissolution of ionic substances (such as salt) or through the reaction of the substance with water, resulting in ion formation (as seen with acids). The strength of an electrolyte is directly proportional to the quantity of ions formed in the solution. On the other hand, nonelectrolytes are substances whose aqueous solutions lack ions and, consequently, do not facilitate the flow of electrical current.