What are substances that form from ions when dissolved in water called?

Substances that form from ions when dissolved in water are called electrolytes. Electrolytes are essential because they dissociate into ions, which can conduct electricity in a solution. This is crucial for various physiological processes in the body, such as nerve signaling and muscle contraction. Common examples of electrolytes include sodium chloride (table salt) and potassium chloride.

The other terms listed refer to different concepts. Solutes are broader and can include any substance dissolved in a solvent, not necessarily those that dissociate into ions. Proteins are complex molecules made up of amino acids and do not directly relate to the formation of ions in water. Acids are specific substances that can release hydrogen ions when dissolved but do not represent the entire category of substances forming from ions in solution. Thus, the characterization of electrolytes specifically captures the nature of substances that form ions in water.