What is defined as a measurement of how well a solution is able to carry an electrical charge?

The correct answer is conductivity, which specifically refers to the ability of a solution to conduct electricity. This property is significant in various fields, especially in chemistry and environmental science, as it indicates the presence and concentration of ions in the solution. These ions act as charge carriers, allowing the flow of electric current.

Conductivity is influenced by factors such as temperature and the concentration of dissolved electrolytes. Therefore, measuring conductivity can provide important information about the ionic composition of the solution, as well as its overall quality, particularly in applications involving water treatment, electrolyte balance, and biological systems.

The other terms refer to different scientific concepts. Viscosity relates to the thickness or resistance to flow of a fluid. Osmolarity is a measure of concentration that reflects the total number of solute particles in a solution and its effect on the movement of water. Capacitance, on the other hand, pertains to an electrical component's ability to store an electrical charge, rather than the ability of a solution to do so. Understanding these distinctions highlights why conductivity is the accurate answer in this context.