A solution capable of conducting electricity, usually a solution of a salt in water.
Alternately, a substance capable of conducting an electric current, such as a molten salt.
Source: Physchem
Glossary of scientific terms
In the production of aluminium, aluminium is obtained from alumina by electrolytic reduction - a chemical term meaning the removal of oxygen atoms from aluminium oxide - in a molten electrolyte, called "bath" in which alumina is dissolved.
The electrolyte is a mixture of cryolite (Na3AlF6), a molten salt, and certain additives to give it appropriate density, conductivity and viscosity. The principal additive is aluminium fluoride (AlF3). The emitted fluorides are collected and treated.
Source: GreenFacts, based on Aluminium : Production and Transformation