Multiple Choice
What charge will chlorine have when it gains one electron?
2. Atoms & Elements
Ions
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How are sodium and chlorine ions different from salt molecules?
A
Sodium and chlorine ions are covalently bonded, while salt molecules are ionic.
B
Sodium and chlorine ions are found only in solid salt, while salt molecules are found in solution.
C
Sodium and chlorine ions are charged particles, while salt molecules are neutral.
D
Sodium and chlorine ions are larger than salt molecules.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the nature of ions and molecules: Sodium (Na) and chlorine (Cl) ions are charged particles, whereas salt molecules, specifically sodium chloride (NaCl), are neutral entities formed by the combination of these ions.
Recognize the type of bonding: Sodium and chlorine ions are held together by ionic bonds in salt molecules. Ionic bonds occur due to the electrostatic attraction between positively charged sodium ions (Na⁺) and negatively charged chloride ions (Cl⁻).
Consider the charge of particles: Sodium ions carry a positive charge, and chloride ions carry a negative charge. When they combine to form sodium chloride, the charges balance out, resulting in a neutral molecule.
Distinguish between ions and molecules in different states: Sodium and chlorine ions exist in solid salt as part of the crystal lattice structure, while salt molecules can dissociate into ions when dissolved in water, forming a solution.
Clarify the size comparison: Sodium and chlorine ions are individual charged particles, whereas salt molecules are composed of these ions bonded together. The size of ions and molecules can vary depending on their state and environment, but typically, ions are considered smaller than the combined structure of a molecule.
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