Salt, commonly referred to as table salt, is primarily composed of sodium chloride (NaCl). This compound consists of two essential elements: sodium (Na) and chlorine (Cl). Sodium is a soft, silvery-white metal that belongs to the alkali metal group, while chlorine is a greenish-yellow gas that is a member of the halogens.
The formation of salt occurs through a process called ionic bonding, where sodium donates an electron to chlorine. This transfer of an electron results in the formation of a positively charged sodium ion (Na+) and a negatively charged chloride ion (Cl–). The opposite charges of these ions create a strong electrostatic attraction, binding them together to form sodium chloride.
In nature, salt is often found in seawater and in mineral deposits, and it can be harvested through evaporation processes or mining. Its chemical composition not only defines its taste but also plays a crucial role in various biological functions in humans and other organisms.