Sodium chloride

Sodium chloride is an ionic compound with formula NaCl, formed from sodium and chloride ions. It occurs naturally as the mineral halite and is the main component of common table salt.

Sodium: Sodium is a soft, highly reactive chemical element with atomic number 11. Sodium atoms lose one electron to form the positive ions in NaCl.
Dissolution: Dissolution is the process by which a solute disperses into a solvent to form a solution. Water separates and surrounds NaCl ions, allowing the solid to dissolve.
Food preservation: Food preservation comprises methods that slow spoilage and extend the usable life of food. Salt lowers water availability and inhibits many spoilage organisms.
Halite: Halite is the naturally occurring mineral form of sodium chloride. It is the crystalline mineral form of the compound.
Sodium homeostasis: Sodium homeostasis is the regulation of sodium levels and distribution in the body. Sodium from dietary salt is essential, but the body must keep its concentration within narrow limits.
Chlorine: Chlorine is a reactive chemical element with atomic number 17. Chlorine atoms gain one electron to form chloride ions in NaCl.
Hydration shell: A hydration shell is the layer of water molecules arranged around an ion in aqueous solution. Water molecules stabilize the sodium and chloride ions released from the crystal.
Salting: Salting is a food-preservation method that applies salt to draw water from food and microbes. It is a direct use of sodium chloride to preserve foods such as fish and meat.
Evaporite: An evaporite is a sedimentary deposit formed when mineral-rich water evaporates. Many thick halite deposits formed as ancient seas or lakes evaporated.
Hypertension: Hypertension is persistently elevated blood pressure in the arteries. High sodium intake can raise blood pressure in many people.

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