In a common salt/sodium chloride (NaCl), ions of which element is positively charged and negatively charged, r

Question

In a common salt/sodium chloride (NaCl), ions of which element is positively charged and negatively charged, respectively?

Examoogle · Accepted Answer

The correct answer is Option A: Na ions are positively charged, and Cl ions are negatively charged.. In an ionic compound like sodium chloride (NaCl), the bonding occurs due to the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions. Sodium (Na) loses an electron to form a positively charged cation ($Na^{+}$), while chlorine (Cl) gains that electron to form a negatively charged anion ($Cl^{-}$).

Step-by-Step Solution & Concepts:
In an ionic compound like sodium chloride (NaCl), the bonding occurs due to the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions. Sodium (Na) loses an electron to form a positively charged cation ($Na^{+}$), while chlorine (Cl) gains that electron to form a negatively charged anion ($Cl^{-}$).

Working Principle: The formation of ionic bonds is driven by the transfer of electrons from a metal (low ionization energy) to a non-metal (high electron affinity). Specifically, the sodium atom (electronic configuration $2, 8, 1$) loses its lone valence electron to achieve a stable octet, resulting in a $Na^{+}$ ion. The chlorine atom (electronic configuration $2, 8, 7$) accepts this electron to complete its valence shell, forming a stable $Cl^{-}$ ion.

Key Formulas: $Na \rightarrow Na^{+} + e^{-}$ — Sodium atom losing an electron; $Cl + e^{-} \rightarrow Cl^{-}$ — Chlorine atom gaining an electron

Key Points: Ionic bonds are formed by the complete transfer of valence electrons.; Cations are positive ions formed by loss of electrons (mostly metals).; Anions are negative ions formed by gain of electrons (mostly non-metals).; Electrostatic force of attraction holds these ions together in a crystal lattice.

Advantages: High melting and boiling points due to strong ionic forces.; Good conductivity when dissolved in water or in molten state.

Disadvantages: Poor electrical conductivity in solid state as ions are fixed in a lattice.

Applications: Table salt for culinary and food preservation uses.; Electrolytes in medical IV fluids.

Additional Info: Sodium chloride is the most common ionic compound in nature.. Option B, C, and D are incorrect because they misidentify the polarity of the ions.

Answer: A is correct — Na ions are positively charged (cations) due to loss of an electron, while Cl ions are negatively charged (anions) due to gain of an electron.

Exam Tip: Remember 'OIL RIG' for redox reactions: Oxidation Is Loss (of electrons), Reduction Is Gain (of electrons). Here, Na is oxidized and Cl is reduced.

Examoogle · Answer

Option B: Cl ions are positively charged, and Na ions are negatively charged.

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Option C: Ions of both Na and Cl are negatively charged.

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Option D: Ions of both Na and Cl are positively charged.

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