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Important Salts in Daily Life - Properties and Uses of Sodium Chloride

Topics

Introduction
Properties
Uses

Introduction:

Sodium chloride, commonly known as table salt, is an ionic compound with the chemical formula NaCl, consisting of sodium and chlorine ions in a 1:1 ratio. Sodium chloride is formed by a neutralisation reaction between sodium hydroxide and hydrochloric acid. We have already seen that this is a neutral salt and that the pH value of its aqueous solution is 7. It appears as a transparent or translucent, brittle, and hygroscopic mineral called halite. In its edible form, it is widely used as a seasoning and food preservative. Beyond its culinary uses, sodium chloride plays a significant role in various industries as a source of sodium and chlorine for chemical production. Additionally, it is extensively used for deicing roads during freezing weather conditions.

NaCl

Properties:

Common salt is a colourless, crystalline ionic compound with no water of rystallization. It is neutral in nature and has a distinctly salty taste.
It can be electrolysed in its molten state to produce chlorine gas and liquid sodium metal.
A saturated solution of sodium chloride (brine) releases hydrogen gas at the cathode and chlorine gas at the anode during electrolysis, also forming sodium hydroxide (NaOH).

2NaCl + 2H₂O → 2NaOH + Cl₂ ↑+ + H₂ ↑

It melts at a high temperature of about 800°C, entering a fused state.
Rock salt, a natural form of sodium chloride, is derived from mineral deposits like halite and is used in treatments for certain diseases.
When a saturated brine solution is evaporated, salt crystallises and separates from the solution.

Uses:

It acts as a seasoning and preservative in food.
It is used in the production of salts such as sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) and sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃).
A key raw material in the industrial production of chlorine gas and sodium hydroxide via brine electrolysis.
It is also applied to deicing roads during freezing weather.
Serves as a source of sodium and chlorine in various chemical processes.
Rock salt is specifically used for therapeutic purposes in treating diseases.
It helps in obtaining pure crystallised salt through the evaporation of saturated brine solutions.

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