Formation of Sodium Chloride
2Na + Cl2 → 2NaCl
Overview
Sodium metal reacts vigorously with chlorine gas to form sodium chloride, common table salt. This is a classic example of an ionic compound formation where a metal transfers electrons to a nonmetal. The reaction is highly exothermic, producing a bright yellow flame.
Participants
| Role | Substance | Coefficient | State |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reactant | Chlorine Cl | 1 | (g) |
| Reactant | Sodium Na | 2 | (s) |
| Product | Sodium Chloride NaCl | 2 | (s) |
Everyday Example
Table salt used in cooking is produced commercially through mining or evaporation of seawater, though the direct synthesis from elements demonstrates ionic bond formation.
Industrial Importance
Sodium chloride production is a massive global industry supporting food preservation, water treatment, and as a feedstock for chlor-alkali processes producing chlorine and sodium hydroxide.
Properties
- Type
- Synthesis
- Reversible
- No
- Energy
- Exothermic
- ΔH
- -411.2 kJ/mol
Related Reactions
Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis (General)
Formation of Aluminum Oxide
Formation of Ammonia (Haber Process)
Formation of Barium Oxide
Formation of Barium Sulfate
Formation of Beryllium Oxide
Formation of Cadmium Oxide
Formation of Calcium Carbonate from Oxides
Formation of Calcium Hydroxide
Formation of Calcium Oxide (Quicklime)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the equation for Formation of Sodium Chloride?
The balanced equation is: 2Na + Cl₂ → 2NaCl.
What type of reaction is Formation of Sodium Chloride?
Formation of Sodium Chloride is a synthesis reaction.
Is Formation of Sodium Chloride exothermic or endothermic?
Formation of Sodium Chloride is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -411.2 kJ/mol.